Have a question for our site editors, Dane and Tim? Email them and let them answer your specific project questions. Make sure to include your email address so they can get back to you directly (we never use or sell your email, we promise.)

Please note, our website is not affiliated with this window manufacturer.

Click to find the model you want reviews on. For general reviews, see the last link.

Editor's Simonton Window Review

Simonton is one of the largest replacement window companies in the United States, with one of the most recognizable names in the window business as well. Their products are available through a number of different channels; the big box stores such as Lowes, Sears and Home Depot, many contractors and local reps distribute them and even some higher end stores carry their more expensive lines.

In general, the high availability of Simonton windows is a good thing because the company produces some solid mid range vinyl windows. The downside to this approach is reduced quality control in terms of the overall level of installation since more or less any contractor with a pick up truck can sell the product.

So how good are Simonton windows? They are often said to be the "Ford" (as in Ford cars and trucks) of the window industry and it seems an apt description. They aren't the fanciest or best looking vinyl windows, but they are well made, sturdy and reliable. The company stands behind their products and has lots of series and models to choose from. Their lower entry Assure and Reflections windows aren't great, but their mid range and higher end Reflections, Impressions and StormBreaker Series are well built and often competitively priced.

Simonton's naming system can be confusing for consumers and with good reason. For instance, the Reflections 5300 series is essentially identical to the Prism Ultra Gold Series. At one point, the Prism Series was only available to certain dealers or distributors, but now the different names tend to be more geographical in nature - West Coast has the Reflections Series and the East Coast has the Prism Series. For consumers, the best approach is to ask the seller which product they are buying and how it compares to the more well known Simonton window models.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2015

Have a question for our site editors, Dane or Tim? Email them and let them answer your specific project questions. Make sure to include your email address so they can get back to you directly (we never use or sell your email, we promise.)

Simonton 5050 Windows Reviews

The Simonton 5050 window was one of the entry level models until they shifted to the Asure model. In general, the 5050 series was not considered a very good window, as is the case with most entry level vinyl windows. It was probably fine for rentals or house flipping, but in terms of long term value, Simonton premium vinyl windows are going to serve most homeowners much better.

Tim - Site Editor

Simonton 5050 vs. PGT Energy Vue Windguard

Hi Dane, we are struggling with these two replacement window quotes and wonder if you can share your opinion?

[Site Editor's Answer]

Amy, I would need to know what window series Simonton is selling you. The PGT bid looks really high to me. $1400 for an impact window is very expensive.

Do you need impact windows?

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

[Amy's Reply]

Hi Dane,
Thanks so much for your reply. I'm trying to find out the series. We don't need impact windows. To be honest, I'm leaning heavily toward the Simonton estimate as the installer comes highly recommended and I was very impressed with their presentation. The PGT installer charges extra for permits and any stucco repair, while the Simonton guy says all that is included.

Just found out it's Simonton Reflections 5050; spec-wise it's upgraded to the 5500.

Amy - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Amy the 5500 series is a very solid window. I think the Simonton bid is absolutely the way to go. Best of luck on the project and let me know how it goes!

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton Reflections 5050 vs. PGT 5400

Greetings Dane and Tim,

First of all, thank you both so much for the invaluable contributions you guys are making for us confused consumers on your replacementwindowsreviews web site!

I have scoured through your web site trying to educate myself on the best mid-range vinyl window/door replacement choices in my area. Here is my project list –

Simonton Reflections 5500 ($19,468 and $16950) -- from two different dealers

Simonton Reflections 5050 ($17,831)

Alside Mezzo ($14,429)

PGT 5400 series ($17850)

VyWinTech Shoreline ($17,501)

Eagle View ($10,802)

MI ($14150) -- Not under consideration thanks to your advice!

Still waiting on a quote for CWS windows.

From my quotes, it seems like the PGT windows are the most expensive, followed by Simonton, VyWinTech, and Alside Mezzo.

Eagle View is manufactured right here in Jacksonville and is direct from factory. Their quote does not include the French door since they don’t make French doors. They are a small company with only about 100 employees, so I would be concerned about the survivability of the company in the next recession. But, their window sample seemed very heavy duty and well made, except for the plastic latch locks which I do not like. The salesman said it is a revival from the old Jordan window whose company went bankrupt back in the last recession.

I have only seen the PGT 5400, the Simonton 5500, and the Eagle View. Of those, I liked PGT the best, but they are the most expensive.

I have not seen any questions on your site about VyWinTech or Eagle View windows.

Do you have any thought on how these two would compare to the PGT 5400 series ?

Frank - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Frank, you have lots of bids there, which is a great start. There are three that I like. The Simonton Reflections 5500 for $16950, the PGT 5400 series for $17850, and the Alside Mezzo for $14,429. I'd like to see you go with one of the first two, but at the price of the Mezzo :) Can you go back to these guys and see if they can match the Alside price? Here's an article that suggests an approach to this.

I like CWS so I'd keep that in the mix. If they did come in for a bid I would say that I had 8 bids already and I can't go over my budget of $16000 and see what they say.

I don't know anything about Eagle View to say much. They have 22 reviews on google and they seem pretty solid. I'm worried that for the price their windows are another Alside Excalibur, poorly made...

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton 5050 vs. Vinylmax Edison 4600

I do not see an air filtration value for Vinylmax Edison. I live in Ohio and have all seasons but not as extreme as some states. I have no clue what value we need. Any info. on this? We were looking at double pane with Argon.

Also, my contractor (who uses Simonton but will do Edison if I prefer) says the Simonton 5050 and 5500 are energy star. I cannot see that the Edison has that rating unless I use triple pane. Is that correct?

Mary - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Mary, the Vinylmax company page has some great information on the window, including the Energy Star certification. An energy star symbol is a generic branding. Any window like the Vinylmax Edison that has better performance data will be Energy Star compliant. They offer a nice upgrade to the neopor insulation that I would seriously consider if it was my project (assuming my pocketbook could take the hit.)

The Vinylmax Edison 4600 double hung has a .12 air infiltration rating. A good number, not a great one, but quite solid. Vinylmax has a great data sheet for you and your contractor to look at. Have him provide you with a data sheet for the 5050 and then do an impartial analysis of the windows' performance.

The information I have on the Simonton 5050 is as follows: 5050 double hung has a .37 U-value, .45 VT and .21 air infiltration.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton Platinum Series vs. Pro Via Endure

Seems my parameters on price and value have me looking to choose one of these two. Pro via "endure" versus simonton " platinum."

Which would you prefer? Installer will be the same. Thanks.

Ji - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Ji, I like both of these windows, but I would go with the ProVia Endure for sure. Very good air infiltration in the double hung at .05 and a design pressure of 50. Very solid window and better than the Simonton Platinum option in my opinion.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton Reflections 5050 vs PGT Energy View 5400

I am replacing my existing builder grade windows in my NW Florida home. I have hurricane storm shutters on my home so I am not in need of the impact resistance windows as a replacement. The two window models that I am comparing are the PGT Energy View 5400 and the Simonton Reflections 5050. The Cost proposals from two different companies are comparable so the question becomes which of the two is the better window? Interested in your thoughts. Thanks.

Scott - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Answer]

Hi Scott, the PGT Energy View 5400 single hung is going to be the better window over the 5050, which is Simonton's entry level model in the Reflections series. I happen to think that PGT makes an excellent window for the price point. Make sure that the company who is installing the PGT has solid online or traditional reviews -- given this, I think PGT is the clear winner in terms of the window.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton 5050 Review

I love the Simonton 5050, but it isn't available as a casement. If that's what you're looking for you'll have to go with the Reflections 5500 or Prism Platinum. The Marvins are good if you're worried about smaller glass, they have thinner frames. A vinyl casement is always going to have thicker framing than the same line in a double hung, so I'd make sure to see one in person before buying.

Simonton 5050 vs Ideal 4500

I am thinking about Ideal 4500 Series windows for my house in New Jersey. I 22 windows to replace. It's a lot of money and I want to get decent windows but I also need a good price.

Jane - Homeowner - from 2010

[Contractor Response]

Ideal makes a budget window. You could probably do worse, but the Simonton 5050 that is around the same price. Also, take a look at the Softlite Imperial Pro of Classic. Even the Soft-Lite Bainbridge (their entry level window) is better than Ideal if your budget is really tight. But Ideal just isn't what you want to live with.

Simonton 5300 Windows Reviews

The Simonton 5300 window, nearly identical to the Prism Ultra Gold Series, is the upgraded Reflections window that offers a better made and more durable mainframe over the Asure. The 5300 is a nice looking vinyl window, nothing fancy, and comes standard with some nice features, including the Intercept spacer, ProSolar low-e glass and a 3/4 inch insulating glass unit. Homeowners can order the 5300 Series in a double hung, fixed frame, slider, single casement, or in a double casement.

Tim - Site Editor

Simonton Reflections 5300 Price Quote

Hi , can you give me a price on a Simonton Reflections 5300 double hung vinyl. 48 by 83 with 24 panes of glass? Looking to see cost of each window. Thanks.

Ronald - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Ronald, that's a huge span. I'm not sure I can give you a price on a window that size because you will probably have to put in two to three windows to cover the 7 feet across. Instead of getting a price from someone like me who hasn't seen the project firsthand and doesn't know what installation specifics are required, you need to go get a few free bids from local contractors.

This is the best way to get a sense of what the market rate is for your project specifics. The more bids you get, the better idea you will have of what brands are available in your area and what the overall price tag will be.

See if you can get the contractors and/or companies to break down the bids into product and labor. Feel free to send the bids/quotes my way once you get them and then I can give you my opinion on what the best bid is and can offer some tips on how to get the best price out of the bids you have!

Dane - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton Reflections 5300 vs PGT 5400

I need 13 Windows. 7 are 36 x 62 ....6 are 36 x 70 trying to decide between PGT 5400 and Simonton Reflections 5300. Any help you can offer is welcomed, since the cost is upward of $10,000. Which brand would you suggest?

Lenny - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Lenny, both the PGT 5400 and the Simonton Reflections windows are good. I think I like the look of the PGT a bit better, but I think the numbers are going to be about the same -- not bad at all, but not great. What concerns me is the price for what are generally considered solid mid range vinyl windows. Obviously, I don't know anything about your installation needs so I can't speak to that, but you are paying $750 per window (assuming 13 windows at $10000). I'm not saying you are paying too much necessarily, but I think you need a couple more bids before you decide to go with either one of these -- and to see if these prices are too high.

I would try and find a Custom Window Systems or CWS rep in your area to give you a bid on whatever model they say is comparable to the 5400 PGT, perhaps the CWS 8000 model.

I would also check and see if perhaps there is a Zen Window in your area that could give you a bid on their Nirvana or Lotus model -- these are actually Soft-Lite Classic and Pro series windows. Try and see if any of these window brands are available as well -- Okna, Sunrise, Polaris and Soft-Lite.
For $750 per window, you should be able to get a top tier vinyl window, instead of a mid range vinyl. But again, every project is different so the additional bids should tune you into the fair market price.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton Reflections 5300 or 5500

I have had two companies visit my home to give me an estimate. I have 26 windows, (2) of which are 11" sidelights on a second floor.

American Weathertechs LLS – local company highly rated on Angie's List and BBB A+. Their quote (cash) is $11,597. Window is Alside Preservation double pane

*I think it is important to know that this company consists of 5 employees, owner + 4 steady employees. It seems to me that if the same 5 guys are always working together, and maintaining high ratings, that has to be considered.

After reading your site for hours, I have come to the conclusion that Alside may not be the best choice. We live in a 24 year old house with the original contract grade aluminum windows. I have tried to locate local dealers who sell Okna, Simonton, and Polaris as it seems these are very good choices.

I am by no means rich. I want a good value for my money. Would you mind pointing me in a direction and no I won't bitch if it goes south. I'm just a dumb cop who doesn't want to regret such a substantial purchase. Thank you for your time. Most sincerely,

Mike - Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Mike, I'm not a huge fan of Alside Windows, although the Preservation window is a nice model and the Mezzo is not bad either. I do think that a few more bids might help to clarify prices and let you see and feel some different vinyl windows that might provide you with some better long term value.

I absolutely agree that installation teams that know one another and install the same windows over and over again is a very good thing, especially if they have a strong reputation.

I'd get a bid on Simonton Reflections 5300 or 5500 model, perhaps even the Impressions 9800 - assuming you find a dealer near you.

These guys do Okna windows in Columbus - you may want to call them up and see if they know of a dealer in Cincinnati.
http://winglerconstructionandremodeling.com/why-okna/

Call Sunrise and see if they have a local dealer.

Call Stanek Windows - I know they probably service your area as well and they make nice vinyl windows.

We are in the process of creating state pages for consumers so let me know what you find out so I can add to the page and help other consumers get some good recommendations. Ohio Options

Tim - Site Editor - from 2015

Simonton 5300 vs Great Lakes Lifestyles

My husband and I are researching replacement windows. We had it down to Simonton's 5300 (or maybe it was 5500) through Home Depot or Great Lakes Lifestyles through a local company, which seems to have a good track record. The local company was definitely more aggressive in their sales (after almost three hours of the "pitch" we ended up signing on) but they're definitely more expensive and over budget. The window styles are comparable, warranties too. But Home Depot quoted about $5000 and the local company quoted $9200 (after really intense negotiating we got it down to $7500.)

Which is the better product? And which company do you think would be better to work with? (I'll give the name off-record as long it doesn't appear on your website). Your advice would be very much appreciated.

Lauri - Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Lauri, I do think Simonton makes a good window, the 5300 and 5500 models are quite decent vinyl windows. However, Great Lakes Lifestyle is very solid and probably comparable to the 5500 Series. I'm not surprised that the local company was more expensive, HD typically uses subcontractors who are often paid by the window, which means the quicker they get the job knocked out, the quicker they get paid. This is not a great recipe for quality installation.

What is the reputation of the local company like? Assuming it is good and their installation teams have lots of experience installing this particular window, then I would say spend the extra money and go with the local company. I like the installers who are super finicky and seem almost anal about their work - these are the ones who are going to make sure that each window is installed perfectly. Do they offer a warranty on the labor, 1 year is typical, just in case something happens.

FYI, I'm impressed that you were able to work them down on price, so many consumers won't take this step and end up paying too much. So good on you for that!

Simonton 5500 Windows Reviews

The Simonton 5500 series is the "premium" Reflections model that may also be referred to the Prism Platinum window. Simonton labels their window series differently in different regions of the country, which doesn't always make for a clear consumer experience. Compared to the 5300 Reflections model, the 5500 window uses a slightly sturdier vinyl frame, and shadow-grooved sash welds.

It comes standard with Super 366 glass, a Super Spacer, and a better sill. Most industry experts that I talk to think the 5500 is a slightly better looking overall window. As with most premium models, the 5500 offers lots of upgrades including triple pane glass, wood-grain interiors, and an optional two-tone finish. It comes in any number of styles, sizes and finishes.

Tim - Site Editor

Simonton 5500 vs. Earthwise Series 7700i

Hello, Dane…
I would appreciate your opinion on the Insulator Series model 700i, installed by WeatherMaster, based in Baltimore, MD. Earth wise Innovative Energy Efficient window model 7700i. The brochure indicates Independent Lab Test Results U-Factor 0.22, SHGC 0.18 and VT .41 We received a quote of $6600 for 11 double hung windows. The other window we were considering is the Simonton 5500, with a quote of the exact same price. What do you think would be the better choice for us? We live in Gaithersburg, Maryland.

Michele - Homeowner - from 2019

[Site Editor's Answer]

Michele, I don't know a lot about Earthwise, but they seem like a pretty fair outfit. The 7700i does seem to be one of their better windows, although it's difficult to suss out actual models on their website. Based on the performance data you are citing, I'm assuming that is correct. That's a pretty fair price on the 11 windows.

I have to say I'm much more comfortable with the Simonton 5500 series, which is quite a solid window. $600 is about what I'd expect, right in the middle of the price range. If this were my decision, I would probably take a hard look at the people doing the work and make my judgement based on who I felt would do the better job. Window wise, I would gravitate towards the Simonton over the Earthwise window, but again that's based on the fact that I have much more experience with Simonton.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2019

Simonton Reflections 5500 vs. Vytex Potomac

We're in Maryland and need to replace fifteen double hung windows. So far, we have three quotes and would love to hear your thoughts.

Vytex Potomac (Window Nation): $11,250

Simonton Reflections 5500 (Home Depot): $10,995

Reliabilt 3900 (Lowes): $6,875

Joseph - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Joseph, I would toss the low quote from Lowes on the Reliabilt. This isn't going to give you the long term value you should be looking for.

The Simonton Reflections 5500 is a solid window, but not based on how close it is to the first bid.

The Vytex Potomac-hp for an extra $200 is the best value bid of the bunch. I'd like to see you get that bid down though. I would suggest going back to Window Nation and see if they can sharpen the pencils and get the bid lower. We have an article in the upper right box that talks about how to renegotiate your bids. This might help you through this process.

Best of luck!

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton Reflections 5500 Price Quote

Hi Tim, what are your thoughts on Window Capping? Is it worth $20/30 extra per window? Looking at the Simonton Reflections 5500.

Also, I have a bid for Simonton Reflections 5500 at $468 window including the upgrade sensor glass package. At what price point do you think it would be "worth" it to upgrade to a Sunrise Classic / Standard window. We have lead paint so that complications matters and is included in the Simonton pricing already.

Thanks.

Daniel - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Daniel, window capping is certainly worthwhile if you are worried about your outside wood trim and want to protect it. Some people really like the original look of the trim and others feel strongly about protecting the wood from potential rot down the road. I think it boils down to the condition of the trim, your home maintenance schedule, and the aesthetic considerations. As to cost, the price you were quoted is about the going rate, so that's fair.

The Simonton Reflections 5500 at $468 per window with an upgraded glass is a very fair price as well. So I'd say the Sunrise Classic is the slightly better and slightly nicer looking window of the two. I'd put the under over at maybe $520 per window. If you could get the Sunrise Classic for the $520 I would go for it. Anything over, stick with the Simonton. The Reflections 5500 with an upgraded glass package for $468 is pretty darn good. Assuming the company has a good track record, it's a strong bid.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton Reflections 5500 vs. Great Lakes ComfortSmart

Hello. I wanted to say thank you for creating this website. It Is helpful especially when each vendor says their brand is the best! I wanted to get your advice on quotes. All quotes come from reputable local companies and I would use any one, so it comes down to the best value for the price.

I have 20 windows. The quotes were $10,000 for Great Lakes ComfortSmart windows, $11,000 for Simonton Reflections 5500, $13,500 for Soft-lite Classic, and $14,200 for Sunrise Essentials. I know soft-lite and sunrise is the best window on the list, but do you think it is worth the price premium? Thank you

Daniel - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Hi Daniel, thanks for the question and good for you for getting a nice swath of bids. So your most expensive bid, the Sunrise Essentials, is the lowest quality window on your list. The Essentials is actually Sunrise's entry level window and, although good for an entry level window, it is not up to par to the rest on your list. So we can toss that one.

The Great Lakes ComfortSmart window is a decent mid range window and certainly one to consider if the installation company stands out in your estimation over the other companies.

I like the other two bids quite a bit. I would put the Simonton Reflections 5500 (one of Simonton's premium window) close to the Soft-lite Classic (Soft-Lite's mid range offering). So assuming an equal footing in terms of the company doing the install, the Simonton is going to offer the best value between these two.

I think the Simonton bid probably offers the best value of the bunch.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton 5500 Bid

I need to replace 2 picture windows and 15 double hungs. I live near the coast in South Carolina. I have a quote from Simonton 5500 for $8.9K. I also have a quote from Sunrise on their Coastal window option. That bid is 12K.

Walt - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Walt, both the Simonton 5500 quote for $8.9K and the Sunrise Coastal bid for $12K are decent enough sounding bids. I think I would see if there is any movement for price reductions from either one.

My own choice would have to be the Sunrise Coastal series, but the Simonton 5500 window is a strong performer as well.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton 5500 Series Bid

Dane/Tim, good lord… Now that I found your site, it’s now driving me even more crazy with the choices & pricing comparisons maze….

I received several quotes from several different local window replacement companies, that came with several different replacement window manufacturers.

The dwelling is a duplex, ground level rental on a horse farm in NJ. 15 windows need to be replaced. The structure was probably built in 1980.

Please let me now your thoughts on all of these window manufacturers & the quoted prices.

Kellan - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Wow, way to go get that many quotes, that's impressive. There are two that stand out. The first is the Okna DH500DX/INSUL-TEC Double hung windows for $11,420. This is what I would go with if it was my main house and I planned on being here for a long time.

But you said rental house. If that's the case and you are planning on keeping it a long time but not living there yourself, I might go with the Simonton 5500 Series for $7,872. This is assuming that whoever is doing the install has solid reviews. (How interesting is it that you got two Simonton bids for the EXACT same window and they were almost $4,000 apart!)

I don't know anything about North East Windows so I can't say anything about them. I suppose I might consider this low bid if I were using it as a rental and planned on selling the property soon.

Okna makes great vinyl windows that are really top quality. It's not the cheapest quote, but it's the best quality. The Simonton 5500 series is a solid window as well, but more of a second tier instead of a first tier vinyl window.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

[Kellan's Reply]

The $4,000 Simonton difference really did throw me for a loop...

One thing I do know about the North East brand is that a window retailer who’s been in the business for 23 years says he’s had to battle in court with them I believe on 2 separate occasions. Other than that, I don’t know much else. I have not, but think I’m going to take a look at a sample, as I’ve not yet seen one.

Other than that, every window sample I’ve seen, they all seem not too dissimilar. & I actually found the United brand to be quite likable.
You didn’t comment on that one. Anything?

But what I’ve noticed lately since I’ve been shopping for Windows, is that half of the reviews are usually about how much a window sucks, & the other half are the latter,, in the end a decision has to just has to be made.

I think I’m going to get one more Simonton series quote, just to see what price pops up.

Other than that,. I can’t thank you enough for your reply & feedback.

Kellan - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

I would avoid the United Windows, their products are subpar in my opinion. Problems with lower end manufacturers always start cropping up in year 5, 6, 7, etc. Kind of like buying a car. Plus the Simonton 5500 is less expensive.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton 5500 Complaint

Hi Dane. My husband and I are shopping for new vinyl windows. We have a 2 story colonial with a brick front and vinyl siding on the remaining exterior walls. We had all of our windows replaced 14 years ago with Simonton 5500 vinyl double hung windows. The 2 issues we’ve had with Simonton has been popped seals and the nylon cams and balances (?) breaking. Quite annoying as they are not easy to replace.

Based on the research we have done, there’s not all that much difference in energy savings between Simonton 5500, Harvey Tribute/Classic, and Okna 500. So what it comes down to in making a choice for us is the balance mechanism used by each manufacturer.

Harvey has a pulley balancing system (we have one Harvey classic in the kitchen window box) and the Simonton has a nylon cam with a metal strip balancer. Sorry if my terms are not technically accurate. What I need to know is what balancing system does the Okna 500 double hung vinyl window use? And I would also like to know your opinion on each type and how reliable they are in terms of how long they should last.

Any insight you can provide would be appreciated.

Deb - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Deb, sorry to hear about your issues with the Simonton 5500 series, it's one of their better windows to be sure. Have you reached out to any Simonton dealers near you to see if you can fix what you have? Maybe get a bid from a Simonton dealer under false pretenses to make sure they show up and then grill him on fixes to your windows (don't repeat my somewhat duplicitous advise).

Assuming that doesn't work or you don't want to go down that road, the Okna 500 is the better window than the Harvey Tribute or Simonton 5500. The Okna uses a block and tackle balance or (cord balance system). Honestly, I think there are pros and cons to the two main balance systems and well made windows can use either and should perform equally as well.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton 5500 Series In Denver

Hi Dane and Tim, I thought I’d get in touch with you two as I’m having a really hard time deciding on replacement windows. I have a 1952 house with original metal, single paned, casement windows. I decided to cash out on some of my equity and update the things on my house that need it and windows is (or was) on my list.

I had a quote from someone 3 years ago, when I moved in, for $6,000 for all 10 windows in my house. I figured today it might be a little more expensive, but the quotes I’ve been getting for my 10 windows is $10,000 to $25,000. I’m honestly sick to my stomach over this.

I don’t want cheap windows, but at this point after living with these types of old windows for the past 15 years (I also had them in my apartment prior to buying my house), I’m thinking I should just forego the new windows. I know they would help with efficiency, etc., but every salesman that’s come in has bagged on the other companies products and told me how horrible the other windows are, which just makes me more frustrated.

All of these companies have also given me different information regarding my bedroom windows. They are 35 ¾ x 37” windows and some of the companies said that the only windows they could put in my bedrooms are the large casement windows due to egress specifications.

I was thinking of getting the double hung, but don’t want to have different types of windows throughout my house. I don’t see any other houses in my area that have the large casements on their bedrooms. But then there were other companies said that no, they could put double hung’s in my bedroom. ??? So confusing.

I live in the Denver area and have had about 6 quotes and am more confused and stressed than ever. On your website I input my info for a ballpark range, it says $4,400 for 10 windows.

I do have some different sized windows that could skew that number, but my numbers I’ve been given are so much higher. Do you think the prices are so much more elevated in Denver now due to the large growth we’ve been having?

Are there any suggestions you can give me? HELP!

Clarissa - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Clarissa, the calculator is meant as a guide only. If you have a complicated install the price can be quite a bit higher. The information is all over the place because each window company has different products, sizes, etc. If you do have some odd sizes etc. you just need to be patient and find the right company with the right products. Here is what I would suggest.

Get a bid from a Simonton dealer who carries the Reflections 5500 series.

Tell each of the companies that you are collecting 3 to 4 bids and that price is certainly a big, but not the only, part of your decision. However, you would appreciate their very best price at the get go.

Collect them and see how these compare to what you have.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton 5500 vs. PGT 5400 Series

Tim, the Simonton 5500 just dropped his price to $11,500 from $13,500 for 20 windows and I received a new PGT quote from another vendor for $11,072.00. However, the PGT person might be a little shady because he gave me another quote for Andersen Silverline for $7,250.00. The windows are Low E and I asked if they had argon gas and he said they didn't but could add for $20 per window.

He said that argon gas is a marketing gimmick which made me have doubts about his credibility. He's an Andersen dealer that is trying to push that line. Simonton might be the best way to go. What are your thoughts between Simonton 5500 and PGT 5400? Thanks in advance and I truly appreciate your insight!

Regards.

Meredith - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Meredith, way to get them to drop $2K off the price, that's fantastic and probably the best price you are going to get from either I would think.

The Andersen Silverline windows are not good quality products. Andersen bought Silverline, which has always been considered a cheaply built product. He is necessarily shady by saying that argon gas is a gimmick -- it might add another 8 to 10% efficiency to the windows but the gas will dissipate over time with any sort of seal leak or failure.

In terms of PGT 5400 and Simonton 5500 -- I'd say it's a wash. I would choose the company who you feel will do the best installation job and will stand behind their work if issues do arise in the future.

Good luck and congrats on whichever one you select.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton Reflections 5500 vs. Okna 500 InsulTec Deluxe

Hi Dane, I've been lurking on your site for a couple of weeks soaking up all the good information. Now I have two quotes from Angie?s list A-rated window contractors that I?d like to run by you. These are for 9 windows installed. I live in Raleigh, NC so USUALLY keeping the heat out is the main need but we are having a tough winter this year.

Okna 500 InsulTec Deluxe - $4703 installed, with grids. This included the foam filled extrusions for added insulation but I wonder if this is a necessity?

Simonton Relections 5500 - $4595 installed, with grids. Metal band lift mechanism vs. block & tackle on the Okna, Simonton rep claimed the band was longer lasting? The installation on this quote includes moving furniture out of the way and reinstalling blinds which is nice but not necessary.

I'd love to get your ideas on these two quotes? From what I've read on your site these windows are comparable but I?d like to know if one has features that make it a better choice for me.

Thank you.

- Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Susan, I agree that both of these windows are quite good. For me, the Okna 500 is the clear winner. This is definitely true from a performance standpoint, as well as an overall quality and craftsmanship. Okna is superior to the Simonton, and absolutely worth the extra money (which isn?t much).

The price bids you have are quite impressive $500 installed for the Okna 500 with the upgraded package is very good. I would hold onto the upgrade package, I think it adds structure and strength that will serve you well as the window ages.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton 5500 vs. PGT 5400

Tim, I’m in the process of making a decision and wanted your opinion. I live in Orlando, and I’ve listed my quotes for replacing 15 windows:

[Site Editor's Answer]

Meredith, first of all great job on getting all those bids. It's a pain in the arse, but now you have an amazing array of options, prices, and products to choose from. I agree that the CWS bid is much too high and it should be tossed (especially with the PGT bid in the mix).

The two bids I really like in your set are the PGT 5400 and the Simonton 5500. The Simonton 6100 Coastal is a bit of a question mark in my mind and I think the window is a full step below the 5400 and 5500 models. These models are better in my opinion than the Berkshire Elite and EcoView Slocomb 7700.

I would still use these lower bids to drive and see if you can get the PGT and Simonton dealers to come off their initial bid price. I'll give you a link to an article that goes over how you might approach this:
Negotiate Your Window Bid

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton 5500 Series or Provia Aspect

Hello, I am in process of doing roof windows and gutters and doors. I am ok with all with my contractor but had concerns about windows he selected in bid after reading reviews. He recommended mi 1650 I believe they were. Asked to quote different windows and he did. He came back with Provia Aspect and quoted both of an upgrade on 2500.00 more than original quote of 20k installed.

Roughly 40 windows not really sure when counting transom, half rounds etc. Most are standard size I guess with a few larger ones. Any advice on if contractor is pricing correctly and difference in windows listed above would be great. Thanks for your time.

Chris - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

The move from the MI 1650 series to either the ProVia Aspect or the Simonton 5500 is without question worth the additional $2500. Frankly I'm surprised that the upgrade cost from a builder grade window to these mid range windows isn't more.

I like both the Provia Aspect and the Simonton 5500 window and I'm not sure which one I would recommend. I think they are pretty darn equal in terms of performance and craftsmanship. I would see which one your builder likes or has more experience. Obviously, if you like the look or feel or function of one over the other, then that should tip the scale one way or another.

I'm assuming you are doing new construction installation and paying $560 per window sounds about right to me. It's not cheap, but it certainly doesn't sound unfair either. It's always a little tricky dealing with a single contractor because you are already sort of bought in and can't leverage other window bids to lower his price.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton 5500 or Sunrise Classics

I am looking to replace my windows and sliding glass doors, and after a ton a of quotes I think I have narrowed it down to two:

I've done a little research, and I know the Sunrise brand appears to be one of the best for window replacements, however the only information I was able to find was on the Essentials and the Restoration models, which seem to be the two extremes. Is the Standard Sunrise model worth the additional 2K versus the Simonton 5500 series?

Thank you.

Monica - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Monica, that's a good question -- I think that's just about right in terms of the price difference between those two windows. The Sunrise Classic or Sunrise standard is a very good window. If it were me, I would go back to the Sunrise dealer and tell him that you like his windows and really want to use his services, but it's out of your price range. Tell him about the Simonton window pricing / bid and that if he could come close to their bid, then you'd be ready to sign that day. I don't think he's going to drop his price $2K, but i'll be he will drop his price some. Say he goes down to $10.5K, then I'd say it's worth it. Who knows, maybe he'll drop his price even more!

Dane - Site Editor - from 2017

[Monica's Reply]

Thank you Tim. I appreciate your feedback. If we are unable to get him to go down, do you see any major issues with selecting the Simonton 5500 series windows? Off the top of your head, do you know which one is more energy efficient and/or has any noise reduction features?

Monica - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

The 5500 from Simonton is quite a good vinyl window, just not as good as the Sunrise. The Sunrise is a better made window and will have better energy efficiency numbers than the 5500. But again, the Simonton 5500 is a good window. In terms of noise reduction, there won't be a huge difference between the two.

You should be able to get both of these sellers to come off their price at least a little bit.

Simonton 5500 vs Midway Alliance Hawthorne

I am getting costs between these two windows, 4 x casements over a picture and a single slider in vinyl basic white. I am guessing that they will be close.

Just want the best window the I can get. The installer will be the same regardless of the quote for the windows. He comes highly recommended from various sources. It will be a complete new construction install ripping out the old windows. complete new install no pocket install.

I think these choices would be better than the Jeld Wen and Anderson 100 or Pella that I can get from the the Big Box Stores.

Andrzey - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Andrzey, I would probably rate those two windows similarly. I myself would probably go with the Simonton 5500, just because I know what I'm getting more than with the Alliance Hawthorne window. Alliance doesn't have the best reputation with credible industry insiders, but I do know that Midway tends to have a pretty darn solid reputation. Basically, Midway is one of a number of regional manufacturers that uses Alliance windows.

I checked the Alliance website and these were the performance numbers they had listed for the Alliance Hawthorne window using the low-e 270 glass -- U-factor .27, .28 SHGC, .53 VT, and .12 AI (air infiltration). These aren't bad numbers, but certainly nothing amazing.

I think you are right to like the Simonton 5500 over Pella and Jeld Wen vinyl windows from the big box store. It is probably a toss up for with the Andersen 100 window and the Simonton 5500.

I think the bottom line is this -- Simonton makes a good vinyl window that isn't the sexiest product out there, but it gets the job done. With good installation, I would have the 5500 series in my house and feel like a got some pretty good value for my money.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton 5500 Reflections vs Wincore

I bought my home a year ago and currently thinking of replacing my windows but I'm not sure if this is the solution. I have cold air drafts near all my windows. It's a split level home and the ground level feels 7 degrees colder. The sticker on one window reads Atrium series 8300 vinyl 2 lite slider ( u- factor -.31, SHGC- .27, visible transm- .50).

First, what do these numbers mean? Is this window good or were the flippers saving money? Could it be that they were just not installed properly?The sticker says Energy star but they are not performing like energy efficient Windows. Should I feel coldness when I press my hand to the glass? I had 2 people come to price out the 19 Windows. One contractor suggested Simonton. I've spent the whole day reading way more about Windows than I care to read. Please suggest a fantastic window that will keep my house steadily warm, reduce outside noise and inside visibility? I plan on being in this house for at least 15 years.

Thank you for your website , I've learned a lot reading everyone's questions and answers. They need to include information like this in new homebuyer seminars.

I'm located in Maryland. He said the windows were not good and the installation. I currently have a lot of air escape. One contractor wanted to use Wincore 5400 series, low e, argon gas fill. He said they use aluminum wrap and caulking. The difference is this price was 10K for 19 windows and the Simonton 5500 was at 14K.

Lucy - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Answer]

Lucy, U-factor measures heat loss - .31 is just okay. SHGC is how much heat passes through the glass - .27 is fine (the ideal number is more based on where you live, which direction the window faces etc.), visible transmittance is how much light enters through the window .50 is okay. In general Atrium windows are just okay. They are often one of the options people use to save money because they can be purchased at the big box stores. Atrium is one of the better brands at the big home improvement stores, but they tend to offer pretty mediocre windows.

So did the contractors say it was the windows that were sub par and not the installation? I'm guessing this is the case. Simonton is a good brand, although I would only have the premium Reflections or the Impressions line in my house. Where are you located, windows are typically sold regionally....

I think the Wincore 5400 window is good — I like the Wincore 7700 series better — if it were me I would go back to him and ask if he has access to the 7700 series and if so, I would tell him that I was willing to sign a contract that day if he could do the job with the 7700 window for the 10K ;)

The Simonton 5500 series is good - but I'm not sure if its worth $4K more — I think the Wincore 7700 and Reflections 5500 are probably equal.

Now see what the best price you can get by playing the two quotes off one another…there is some wiggle room in price, I'm certain of it...

Tim - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton 5500 vs Paradigm

Looking to replace two patio sliding doors, I large picture window and one bow window. Looking at Simonton 5500 and Paradigm windows. Which is better? Should I be looking at another company. I live in upstate New York and have a lot of snow and cold.

Terry - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Answer]

Terry, the Simonton 5500 series is a good vinyl window. Paradigm is going to be lower on the food chain in my opinion, although I don't know a ton about them. My notion is that their premium vinyl window would be somewhere close to the Simonton 5500. You might want to get 1 or 2 additional bids.

You should be able to do a quick google search for local companies who carry the following brands; Okna, Sunrise, Soft-Lite, Harvey and Polaris. These are the better window manufacturers that should be available from someone in your zip code. Feel free to send me the bids and project details and I can give you an unbiased opinion on what might be the best bet from your home reno.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

[Terry's Answer]

Thanks for your quick reply. I have met with a Sunrise dealer/installer in my area for the 2 patio doors I need. He is quoting about 3,000 for each patio door and 3,360 for replacement picture window and 1 double hung on each side. both are installed price. I'm reading that Sunrise sash panels are welded, however the frame is "knock down" meaning it comes in pieces and assembled via fasteners.

I am unable to locate Okna or Polaris in my area. Still looking. Harvey is about 1 1/2 hours away from me. Looking into Soft-Lite.

Terry - Homeowner - from 2016

Reflections 5500s And Frame Fill Question

Sir, a further question if you don't mind. I have a cousin who works in the industry. He wrote to me: "Just don't get caught up in gas insulated glass. That is more money than it's worth. Look for insulated frames. Vinyl is very cold when not insulated."

I really haven't found any windows available locally that don't have insulated glass and do have insulated frames. I was all set to go w/ the Reflections 5500s. I got refs from two local homeowners who had them installed by a particular contractor and they were happy.

What do you think the insulated frame vs insulated glass issue?

Steve - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Steve, most window manufacturers offer a standard glass that includes a low-e glass with argon fills. The argon is the gas and is pretty common in the industry. You certainly don't have to have the argon, but it does add some energy efficiency to the window, not a ton, but some. Over time, the argon can escape if the seals on the Insulated Glass Unit are weak or leak. I wouldn't spend a lot of time worry about whether you have it or not, but most windows do come with it. The gas is not an expensive add on as far as the overall cost of the window goes.

In terms of foam filled frames, I totally agree that the extra cost to have the foam injected frame is well worth the money. Different manufacturers have different options, some window series come with it standard, others offer this is an upgrade, while some lower end companies may not offer it at all. Make sure to ask the dealer who is selling you the window what the different options are.

At the end of the day however, you will be better served to concentrate on finding a quality window manufacturer who will offer these upgrades, but that builds a quality extrusion and uses quality components, along with professional installation. Get these two pieces of the puzzle right and the little extras and upgrades will be icing on the cake!

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton 5500 Reflection Windows

Hi, I had a contractor give me a quote for installing, building out the framing and wrapping 23 Simonton 5500 Reflection windows. He came in just under 13k. A friend had Home Depot do his house w/ Simonton Vantage Point 6100's and he is very happy. HD touts their "lifetime workmanship warranty." They came in $1800 higher and of course this is w/ a "sale" that ends in a few days.

Am I correct that the Reflections 5500 is a better window than the Vantage Point 6100? I read that the 5500 is akin to the better Vantage Point, the 6500, whereas the VP6100 is the same as the lower end 5050. I am wondering if Home Depot is trying to sell me a lesser window (than the other quote) for more money, albeit w/ a better warranty on the labor/installation.

If you could reply it would be great. I appreciate your time and respect your expertise.

Steve - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Steve, the Simonton 5500 Reflections window is definitely the superior window over the VantagePointe 6100. I'm also not a fan of how HD subcontracts out their work and pay per window, I feel like they pay their subs very poorly and this just doesn't strike me as the best way to deliver quality installation. Some people love the HD installers, but I have also heard my share of bad stories of poor HD projects.

The price you got on the 5500s with full installation is very good and as long as you keep in contact with the contractor, you should be able to come back to him if there are any issues with the windows down the road.

Good luck and let me know how the project turns out!

Tim - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton 5500 vs Milgard and Amerimax Windows

I'm looking to drastically improve the comfort level in the upstairs portion of my house. 3 fairly large south east facing Windows and one large north facing window. The rest are in shady portions. I'm going to remove the siding around the Windows in order to add trim and to install new construction type Windows.

Thanks for the advice--I really found your site helpful.

David - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

David, I like each of the windows you mentioned. The Quietline is the outlier of the bunch and will be much more expensive that the others (if for some reason it isn't, you should jump on it!). I might give the advantage to the Reflections 5500 series of the three, but not by much.

I would say that with such close window selections, it might be best to now shift your attention to the installers. This component is obviously very important. Good installation will insure that they don't have to come back out and fix issue and charge you for their "service." If it were me, I would select the company that seems to offer the best installers with lots of experience installing their specific window.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton Reflections 5500 vs Zen Windows

We just tore out a rotten window sill at our home yesterday (not the remodel project.) In our area, in vinyl, the local distributors carry Silverline, Pella, Simonton and the smaller companies (which I agree we should stay away from because the warranties are not great and the companies may not be around later for warranty work.) I have not looked at the home stores and hope not to because that seems to complicate things more. You have confirmed my feeling about the Silver Lines. I suspect that the same scenario applies to Pella.

I looked for Sunrise and Soft-Lite, but only found Zen about 40 miles away from the construction site. I will check into the other brands you mentioned, but if they are not available here that really only leaves Simonton reflections 5500 and Platinum Prism as worthy options here. They are expensive, but they seem to have a decent warranty.
Again, I thank you so much for your help.

Nita - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Nita, the Simonton 5500 is a good window. Call up the Zen dealer and have them come out and give you a bid. Tell them you only want a bid on the Nirvana and Lotus, not the Karma model. The Nirvana and Lotus are the Soft-Lite Classic and Soft-Lite Pro (confusing right?)

Both of these models are quite good and are often at a nice price point. Not always so, but often. The more bids you have, the stronger your negotiating position.

Good luck!

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton 5500 Review

I need to replace 14 windows (2 double casements, 2 single casements, 10 awning). I've had estimates from a number of companies. I recently viewed the Simonton 5500 series. Nice window, but man, I now understand the importance of VT (Visual Transmittance). The sample was a double hung window, but holy cow, there was a lot of frame in that window. I realized how important VT is when considering replacement windows. The VT rating for the Simontons was .49. It is hard to find the VT rating for a lot of windows. Most of my windows will be casements or awnings, so maybe VT isn't as much a factor. In a double hung it was pretty obvious.

I've seen the Okna casement product. They are beautiful and have a good VT of .54, but the price is about $12,500, which is above my $10,000 budget.

I am waiting to see the Ply Gem Premium sample. What good mid-range windows have a good VT rating? I am also looking at the Sunrise windows.

I love this website. I have learned so much in the past 2 months. You guys really do a great service to homeowners.

Jeff - Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Jeff, thank you for the nice compliments, we try our best to help out homeowners who are looking to get the best value for their dollar. I am surprised by how expensive that Okna casement window quote is, $12,500 for 14 windows is a lot of money. Those double casements can be quite expensive.

Simonton Windows do tend to be somewhat bulky. Ironically, American windows are much less bulky than vinyl windows in Europe, which are extremely bulky but also last considerably longer and offer better performance. It's basically a trade-off and those are some of the choices that you as a homeowner have to make. Vinyl, for the most part, will offer better performance numbers than other materials, the one exception being fiberglass.

Sunrise makes a pretty good vinyl window that uses a less bulky frame and it sounded like you were going to take a look at them. I'd be curious how you thought they measure up to the Ply Gem premium that you looked at.

In terms of comparing window numbers, you should look at the NFRC.org website. Click on the verify ratings residential link and search by manufacturer. The website is a little tricky to discern as far as what components and glass the window is using, however it has a wealth of information that will give you VT ratings, u factor and SHGC.

Let me know what you end up doing and how the nfrc.org site helps to compare the VT numbers...

Simonton 5500 Window Series

My showroom has samples of the Simonton 5500 Series and the HiMark 800, and when you look at the two together the differences are clear. The 5500 is a good, solid window and it will work fine for most homes. The HiMark, though, is in a class by itself. It's truly a premium window, with a good build and great look. Window replacement costs are expensive, so if it was me I'd buy the best I could afford. They'll last longer and give you fewer problems over the years.

Harry - Window Dealer - from 2012

Simonton 5500 vs Vinylmax

I like the Vinylmax Easton, I'd compare it to a Simonton 5500, but the Easton has a triple pane option that is great for noise reduction. They aren't as well known as a lot of brands, but they are a small family run business and I've had really good experiences with them. They are a lot like Simonton a few years ago, before the big corporate takeover left them with customer service issues. Maybe more like Wincore is now - solid but not well known.

Simonton Reflections 5500 Review

Simonton has some good windows, especially the Reflections 5500 and Prism Platinum. They are pretty much the same with only some minor cosmetic differences. I like the Prism Platinum best, it has the Super Spacer and double strength glass. If you are in the south, I'd go with the ETC Super 366 for the low solar heat gain. In the north, you want the solar gain so get the ETC Super Solar instead.

John - Contractor - from 2010

Simonton Reflections 5500 Series vs Marvin Infinity

My home in Maryland is 60 years old, and I need windows that will look good on an older Colonial style home. I'm looking for 13 double hungs in a simple white style. It's also important that they qualify for the tax rebate for efficiency. A local contractor is a good friend and came out and gave us a quote, but he only deals in Simontons. Another friend suggested a Marvin rep that they know and he suggested Infinity windows with a fiberglass frame. As far as installation, I think either company would do a good job. I usually look at Consumer Reports but they haven't reviewed Simontons. I know that most problems with windows come from installation problems. The bids are $7900 for the Simonton Reflections 5500 and $12,228 for the Marvin Infinity. Is there $4,000 difference in quality? If there is, it's fine, we plan on staying here for a long time and I want good windows, but I hate to waste money.

Suzy - Homeowner - from 2010

[Contractor Response]

Don't pay attention to Consumer Reports. They only look at low-grade stuff you can buy in a big box store, and they don't know anything about windows. Simontons are good windows, I have them in my warehouse, but I'm not in love with them. They have good customer service and the windows perform well, but I don't think it's anything special. The Marvin Infinity is excellent, I really like it. They have great engineering and design. I like fiberglass more than vinyl. It's stronger and does better in temperature swings, so you actually keep the great performance stats that you think you're buying. It's hard to say if they're worth the money. If you're going to be there 10 years, it's a difference of $400 a year. That's almost nothing when you're talking about a whole house of windows.

Simonton 9800 Windows Reviews

The Simonton Impressions 9800 is considered the company's best standard grade vinyl window series (the Stormbreaker is a more robust window, but an impact window built to handle intense storms). It has similar performance numbers to the Reflections 5500 model (see above), but many think it's a better looking vinyl window, largely due to the different frame style and exterior color options.

When the Impressions 9800 model was first released, it was limited to a few dealers, but now anyone who offers Simontons can sell it. The original plastic handle on the sash has been replaced by two metal ones. It runs about $50 more than the 5500 Series and includes the double lifetime warranty that comes standard on many of the mid grade and higher end Simonton vinyl windows.

Tim - Site Editor

South Louisiana And Simonton Windows

Hi, we want to replace our 50 yr old single pane windows and would like to know what you suggest. We live in south Louisiana and it gets very hot and humid. Thank you!

Francis - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Francis, I have to say that Louisiana is a tough state to make recommendations in. There used to be a Sunrise dealer out of New Orleans, but I can't seem to find him anymore. You may want to call up Sunrise and see if you can't find this out or not. That would be top on my list.

I would also check to see if there is a Simonton dealer near you. They have a number of solid series, including the Impressions 9800 and Reflections 5500, as well as the Simonton Daylight. This last model is available through Home Depot. I'm always a bit wary about recommending HD installation -- personally if I bought something from the big box stores I'd hire a local installer who had a great reputation.

Let me know if either one of these options works out. If not, recontact me and let's go from there. It may just take a bit of digging before we find a decent option for you.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton 9800 Elite Plus or Sunrise Restoration

Tim I just met with an affable guy from 1st Choice a small local outfit-Denver area. As my windows get baked with morning sun he strongly suggested triple pane. Simonton 9800 Elite Plus or Sunrise Restoration. There is nothing special about the installation. $3572 for Simonton, $3929 for Restoration. Those seem like a nice step up from the Zen Nirvana for not much more. Friday I meet with someone from Colorado Classic, who also does Soft Lite.

The Restoration doesn't have argon gas, the Simonton does. He seemed to think that argon wasn't necessary on a triple pane, implying they will eventually leak anyway. Any thoughts?

I am not concerned about the absolute best price so much as a fair price with excellent service.

Too many bids will only confuse this old guy. I really appreciate your site and you getting back to me.

Regards.

Lew - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Lew, both the Simonton 9800 Elite Plus and Sunrise Restoration are great choices, but the Sunrise Restoration is the winner between these two and is worth the extra money. In fact, it's one of the best vinyl windows out there and in my top three, an excellent performer.

You may want to ask him if he can do the Sunrise at the Simonton price and see what he says. Depending on how much work he has, he may drop the price a bit.

Good luck and let me know how it goes!

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton 9800 vs Sunrise Verde

Hi there, I am looking to slowly replace all the windows in our home (built in 1995) in Colorado. The major concern is noise and heat/cool transfer. The sun is pretty intense on a couple of the west facing windows. I got a quote from a local company who installs Sunrise Verde windows for around $950 a window and a larger company who does Simonton 9800 for around $1350/window.

Of course they both say their window is the best. Simonton's windows are triple pained- I'm wondering if that is better or unnecessary? We can hear a decent bit of car noise currently through the windows with a somewhat large street outside. I'm leaning towards Sunrise Verde because I liked the company and price tag better (my husband is worried about going with the lower bid) but is their a big difference between the windows? I don't want to regret a window purchase and are open to either, just want to know which one is the best choice! Thanks for your input!

Joy - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Joy, both of these windows are good, but I'm happy to tell you that I would say the Sunrise Verde is better than the Simonton 9800 model. Sunrise makes a great window and the Verde model is one of their best. The Simonton 9800 model is their best window, but I don't think its air infiltration, fit, and tolerances can match the Verde.

That's quite a high per window price -- I'm assuming the installation is tricky in some way. You might want to grab a couple more bids from local companies just to make sure that that's the fair market price.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

[Joys Reply]

Thanks so much for your advice. I’ve been trying to figure out which ones are better and of course since they both claim to be the best it’s impossible! Stressful. Well I got 3 quotes- Andersen ($5000 for 2 windows!), a local company (who installs verde windows) and a larger Colorado company with Simonton. Maybe since we live in Boulder, Co the price/cost of living is higher?? Also they are rather large windows- 2 large sliding windows and upstairs so that may be harder?

Thanks Dane!

Joy - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Joy, it sounds like the Andersen is not the way to go based on the price :) At the end of the day, pricing is based on the project and it sounds like you have the range of prices. On the plus side, you have a great window in the Verde and they gave you the best price. I think you've got your answer!

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton 9800 vs. CWS 610/615 vs. PGT EnergyVue

I live in the Orlando area I have narrowed my search to the final three. I believe that I’ve negotiated the best possible price and wanted your opinion. The Simonton has the best warranty but I’m more concerned about the quality of the product and appearance and not the warranty (since all three have a good warranty). Thanks in advance for your assistance.

[Site Editor's Answer]

Meredith, I like all three bids and windows you have and good work on getting the bids as low as you can get. I would say the PGT is the winner for me given the product and the price. Assuming you are comfortable with the company doing the work, I think you have found a good option. My second choice is the Simonton 9800.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton Impressions 9800 Series

Dane, Florida building code was changed in 2015 and pretty much requires vinyl windows be used to meet the energy efficiency. I am concerned about the long term durability of using vinyl in such a high temperature and high UV environment. I am considering the Simonton Impressions 9800 series as a replacement for 14 Windows. Several of the Windows on on the southern side of the house get direct sunshine most of the day.

I have seen many articles not recommending vinyl Windows in such an environment so am confused as to why the Florida building code now recommends them for efficiency. Some companies won't even offer aluminum framed Windows because of the efficiency requirement in the code. What are your thoughts?

John - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

John, vinyl windows are the most energy efficient on the market (fiberglass is very close behind). Aluminum is very bad in terms of energy efficiency, even the thermally broken options now available.

The articles not recommending vinyl windows either were written back when the industry did have problems with vinyl warping under intense heat, or are from people who advocate another material because they rely on that material for their livelihood. I will also say this, poorly made vinyl windows are still subject to long term issues with the vinyl warping, although this now tends to be with wide windows that can't support the weight across the span.

Well made vinyl windows are much better equipped to handle heat, salt and humidity than any other material with the exception of aluminum. Aluminum is incredibly strong, much stronger than vinyl, but the performance data on them is so bad that it makes no sense to use them.

The Simonton Impressions 9800 is the company's best series in my opinion and quite a good window. It should have no problem holding up to the weather in Florida. It does carry a lifetime warranty in case something does go wrong. As always, make sure to stay in touch with whomever installs the window just in case you need them down the road.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton Impressions vs. Milgard Tuscany

Hi, I am searching for a good replacement window for the hot Arizona climate. I want something that is energy efficient but not too bulky because I want to be able to install flush mounted shutters after the windows are installed. What would you recommend in a low to mid price range? Vinyl or aluminum?

Mary Jo - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Mary Jo, first off I would say don't get a low end vinyl window, not in the hot Arizona sun, this will likely cost you more money in the long run. A mid range vinyl window should suffice.

I would recommend you get a bid from a local company that sells the Milgard Tuscany model. Ask them if they sell aluminum as well and if so have them bring a sample for you to pick up etc. and get a price on both of those.

Anlin services Arizona and is a good brand. They offer several nice models.

Amerimax also should have local reps and I would get a bid from them.

Finally, find a Simonton dealer who sells the Impressions Series and/or the Restorations Series. These are the two series that I like from Simonton.

Explain to the reps that you want to flush mount your blinds and assuming you know the dimensions, have them show you with a tap measure how deep the vinyl windows will sit and whether that will leave enough room for the blinds. Do this with each of the companies that comes out. By the third bid you will have a good idea whether this is going to work or not.

Remember that bulky and energy efficient stand in direct contrast -- a bulky vinyl frame typically offers good performance, while a thin frame will usually sacrifice some performance.

Mark, there is a big difference between the Simonton 9800 series and the Alside Mezzo. The 9800 is one of the best window series from Simonton and I would say the Mezzo is just an okay vinyl window, maybe in the lower end of the mid range. I would say the Alside Mezzo is better than the Sheffield, so if the option is between these two, I would go with the Mezzo. In general, Simonton windows are one tier up from Alside, although the Ultramaxx from Alside is a pretty decent window.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton 9800 vs PGT 5400 Window

Trying to choose between Simonton 9800 and PGT 5400 EnergyVue. The warranty is better with simonton and cost is about the same. Which is more energy efficient in Florida?

Ken - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Sorry for the delay in getting back to you Ken. I like both these windows. The Impressions 9800 is Simonton's best window IMO, very solid. I happen to really like the PGT 5400 single hung and think it's an excellent choice at the price point. If it were me, I'd go with the PGT option. This is assuming equal quality installation. This is the factor I would use to make the decision more than the window itself. Installation is going to be half of the equation so if the windows are roughly the same, that should really be the deciding factor.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton Impressions vs Renewal by Andersen

Tim, My apologies if this has been asked and reviewed already. If that's the case, you may just direct me to the previous review. We are looking at replacing 7 "normal" sized double-hung windows and three sliding windows of various sizes. We've had a local contractor come look at the job, and he uses Simonton vinyl windows...the model i am not sure of yet.

Based on some other estimates he had in his book, I'm guessing his quote will be in the $6,000 - $9,000 range. We will have the quote this week. He has a well-established company that isn't huge, but isn't tiny either. We also had an estimate from Renewal by Andersen for the same job and it came to $24,000. Their big pitch was their Fibrex composite material for durability/strength/etc.

Is this Fibrex material really that good and is it enough to warrant 3 times the cost versus a quality vinyl window? We live in St. Louis, so the weather conditions can vary quite a bit; high heat, humidity, high winds, storms. Our winters aren't too bad, but can get down in the teens a few times.

Hans - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Hans, the Renewal Cost Quote is pretty typical and is not something that I would ever consider for my own home (one, I couldn't afford it and two it isn't worth it, although they do make nice windows, just not worth the crazy price tag). So if it were me, I would throw out the RBA at the outset.

Simonton makes a good vinyl window, but they are nowhere near the best. Their Impression 9800 series is the one window that I would say is quite good. I'd like to see you get a quote on some other windows, I know Zen has a branch in St. Louis - they sell Soft-Lite windows under a different name. Sunrise may be available in St. Louis, as well as Okna. Try these window brands and see how their mid range to slightly better vinyl windows compare in price to the quote you got for the Simonton. These are going to be higher quality vinyl windows and will provide you with the best long term value (although they will be more expensive at the outset).

Tim - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton 9800 Casement Window

My current casement wood window has a Sash width of 17 1/2" and a height of 46". The visible glass width is 14 inch on this sash. I am thinking of replacing it with Simonton 9800 casement window with a sash of 171/2" but since vinyl frames are thicker than wooden frames what would be my visible glass width if I get a Simonton 9800 casement with 171/2" sash? Can u please advise.

Ravi - Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Ravi, if you did a retrofit installation you would probably lose 1" to 1.5" on each side for the thicker frame, which is quite a bit for such a small window. If you are completely removing the old window and replacing it with the 9800, you will probably lose .5 to 1 due to the thicker vinyl frame - it will look better than the retrofit as well. (The only reason you would have to do the retrofit is if taking out the original wood window would require lots of work to the exterior surround that would bump up the cost to the point of not making it worth the expense.

So, long answer short, I would say you would lose about an inch of glass space on the sides and bottom and 1/2 inch on the sash top...

Dane - Site Editor - from 2015

Simonton Impressions Series vs PGT Windows

I'm trying to compare Simonton 9800 Impressions and the PGT 5500 series. I don't need the Hurricane Compliant window. When I had called PGT, they told me they had come out with a newer frame which is their 5500 series. They told me one can get that window frame in Impact or non impact glass. So if I were to choose the standard non impact double strength glass which would be a better product PGT or Simonton 9800? Thanks.

Ravi - Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

I would say the PGT is better. Who is doing the install? This could tip the balance one way of the other. Assuming the same person is installing the windows, I was pretty impressed with that PGT 5500 window, at least from what I saw on the website. I haven't actually seen one in person, however I have used their windows in the past and for the most part, I've always found them to be very solid.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2015

Ravi's Response

Dane, Thank you for the info. I am removing the old window and replacing them with brand new Simonton 9800. From current 14 inch width visible glass if 9800 gives me 13 inch width visible glass I can live with it.

How does Simonton 9800 compare to PGT 5500 series windows? I am debating between which one to choose Smonton or PGT? Any thoughts or suggestions between these two brands. Thanks.

Ravi- Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Ravi, both the Simonton 9800 Series and the PGT 5500 series are very solid vinyl windows. Are you looking specifically for an impact window, which is what the 5500 series is - part of the WinGuard series from PGT, I believe. I really like PGT, well priced (depending on who you buy from) and quite well made. I would say that PGT would get the nod over Simonton.

However, I could see the 9800 series being less expensive than the 5500 series and assuming you don't need a hurricane compliant window, the 9800 should be an excellent choice for most residential homes. The 9800 also comes in a number of different styles and options, which I like. If you do need a hurricane compliant window, the 9800 can be upgraded with an aluminum sill reinforcement and laminated glass and it should pass code. By the time you make these upgrades though, the 5500 might be cheaper.

I've just thrown out a lot of variables, I know, I apologize. All in all, two very good vinyl windows from two solid companies in the industry.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2015

Simonton Coastal vs Soft-Lite 5300 Impact Windows

Would you recommend Simonton Coastal Impact Window for $800/ window or Soft-lite 5300 Armor Impact window for $711/ window? Both would be retrofit. Thank you for your imput.

Jennifer - Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Jennifer, I would have to say the Soft-Lite 5300 impact window would be my choice. While you didn't mention any of the features, glass package, etc., from a purely "reputation" standpoint, the Soft-Lite is a first ier vinyl window, while Simonton is a second tier company. The fact that the window is also less expensive makes the choice that much easier. I will say that the Simonton StormBreaker Plus is a pretty darn good impact window for the price.

Let me know how it works out.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2015

Storm 9800 Windows On The Florida Coast

I live on the Florida coast and need to update my single pane windows with a storm window. My contractor likes the 9800 Impressions with the laminated glass upgrade. I like this option too since they are less expensive than other storm windows we are looking at; PGT and Gorell impact windows. According to the contractor, the 9800 models will stand up to a Cat 4 hurricane but the window isn't actually considered a storm window per se. Just curious if this information is correct and what options are out there.

John - Homeowner - from 2013

[Contractor Response]

Simonton does make a storm window, called the Stormbreaker, which is stronger than the Impressions - and more expensive. The 9800 with the laminated glass will provide some nice protection, but not as much as the PGT Winguard or the Gorell 5400 - again these models will probably run more. If you do go with the Impressions 9800, spring for the sash reinforcement and the High TL with the high tilt latch (this should increase the DP rating up to around a 65). In the end, it will come down to budget, but you have some nice options available to you in that area.

Brandon - Installer - from 2013

[Contractor Response]

Your contractor was correct that the 9800 is not hurricane certified, but is a strong window with some upgrades included such as the laminated glass. The Simonton StormBreaker has a steel reinforcement in the sash and will be stronger - but probably not much more than the 9800 with the upgrades to the 9800 model.

[Contractor Response]

In terms of how the two windows look, I have to give the check mark to the 9800 model, but just by a hair. But in terms of the performance numbers, the Elements is going to beat out the 9800 in all categories (plus I think the Elements is better from a design standpoint.) It's probably worth the extra money depending on your budget. If you go with the 9800, get the Sensor Glass with the Super Spacer, which will help with that U-factor.

Simonton Impressions 9800 vs 5500 Series

I'm replacing all of my windows and like the Simonton company and feel comfortable with it - so my question is which is the best series they offers, the Prism Platinum, the Reflections 5500 or the Impressions 9800?

Saskia - Homeowner - from 2010

[Contractor Response]

To start off with the 5500 and Prism Platinum are identical - they are just sold through different distributors and sometimes the name change reflects the part of the country in which you live. The 9800 will be about equal in performance but it's a nicer looking window from the 5500 model. The Impressions 9800 uses a different die, but will have most of the same spacer, glass, hardware and color options. The Impressions will be a more expensive window (it was originally only available to certain Simonton dealers, but I believe now that's no longer the case).

Simonton Asure Windows Reviews

The Simonton Assure, introduced in spring 2012, is the redesigned Reflections 5050 window. The profile is even thinner, with nearly an inch of glass added to all four sides. The sash remains the same, although the frame has a cleaner, simpler look. The performance numbers didn't change much and you can upgrade to the Supercept if you're looking for a better spacer.

The Asure and 5050 share the same sash design, however many installers comment that they prefer the look of the newer Asure mainframe - innovation at work. The Asure window is not going to come in lots of options, tan or white exterior and interior color options and style choices that include a 2 lite slider, picture, double hung, and several geometric shapes. Comparable to Pella 250 window costs.

Tim - Site Editor

Simonton Asure Series

My contractor has suggested the Norandex Perfexion window, which he said is made by Simonton. Is this right? I thought Norandex was a separate company.

Manny - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Manny, Simonton bought Norandex, or at least the Florida plant that makes the Perfexion line. The window is available in a number of different options, including the Silver, Gold and Platinum windows. I'd say the base Perfection window is on par with the Simonton Asure. I'd stick with the Gold or Platinum if I were you.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton Asure D-H Windows

Replacing all windows in home, 13, enlarging 5. The contractor I am working with uses the Asure D-H windows. Consumer reports only rates the Simonton Pro-Finish Contractor window. We do not want to spend about $10,000 to replace our 1983 windows with cheap or cheap looking windows. Suggestions?

How do these compare? We live in Austin, TX. Also, which do you think is a better looking window, less bulky? Which would you recommend?

Arcelia - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

I can't speak to the overall price he is quoting you out at, only because enlarging openings can be a costly business. The Simonton Asure double hung is an entry level vinyl window that you should insist your contractor NOT use. I would have him price out Don Young aluminum or vinyl windows, the Milgard Hermosa (a vinyl window made specifically for Texas), and the NT Presidential window.

If he insists on Simonton windows, I would suggest the Impressions 9800 series or the Reflections 5500 series. All of these window models should provide a good solid product at a price that shouldn't break the bank.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton Asure Window Review

Would you say the Simonton Asure line is a contractors / apartment grade? I am not finding many reviews on these windows.

Jordan - Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Jordan, the Simonton Asure is the entry level vinyl window that took over for the Simonton 5050 line back in 2012. The window is alright, it's actually one of the recommendations I make for "windows on a budget." It is very similar to the Simonton ProFinish Contractor, but with a nicer frame - the ProFinish is actually a new construction, while the Asure is a replacement window.

The short answer to your question is yes, the Asure is essentially a contractor grade window. However, with good installation it will work pretty well. If it were me, I would stretch for the Reflections 5300 or 5500 series - or the Impressions 9800 series, both from Simonton.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2015

Simonton Asure vs Sunrise windows

My husband and I are near Washington DC and we are trying to decide between Sunrise windows and Simonton Asure windows. All will be double-hung. Unfortunately, we can't get the extruded color we want from either of them. The windows on the back of our house are Andersen Renewal and they do have the right color, but we don't want to spend that kind of money again. What would you recommend if the prices end up close?

Janice - Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Janice, I am going to assume that you are looking at the entry level Sunrise Essentials, which would be the closest comparison to the Simonton Asure window. The standard Sunrise window and the upgraded models such as the Vanguard, Verde and Restorations are all a whole other level above the Asure model.

I'm not exactly sure which color you are looking for, but Okna is an excellent manufacturer that will be available in the Washington DC area and offers quite a few exterior color options, including brown, white, bronze, sandstone, cocoa, almond, and some other custom colors. I believe that there are several local dealers who carries the okna brand and they can bring out window samples for you to take a look at, touch, feel, operate etc. In all likelihood, the local rep will just bring out a white as a sample, but they should have an Okna Delaer book that will show examples of the colors they carry.

If that doesn't work out, let me know and I can help you further. This is where I'd start though...

Tim - Site Editor - from 2015

Simonton Asure Reflections Window

We are planning to replace three casement windows. Now the contractor propose the Simonton Reflection window. Is it the entry or mid level series?

Nancy - Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Nancy, the Simonton Reflections window is one of a number of "Collections" offered by Simonton and can be ordered in their entry level , mid range or high end model (each of which carries a Series number). The Simonton 5050 is the low end model, although this model is phased out in most areas and is now called the Asure. The mid range is the 5300 Reflections and is a decent mid range vinyl window. The 5500 is an upgraded version of this, and has a slightly sturdier frame, a shadow grooved sash and I think a bit nicer looking. In general, Simonton manufactures good windows - not great - but very solid and honestly (assuming quality installation) is probably just fine for 80% of all households out there.

Bottom line, make sure you know which Reflections window you are buying and see if you can't see the actual window prior to purchasing so you can feel and touch it, check out the casement hardware, how it opens, etc. Assuming you like how it looks and feels, you should be in good hands.

Simonton CV500 Windows Reviews

Simonton CV500 vs Milgard Windows

We are considering replacing all our windows and sliding glass doors. We have the original windows in our home that is about 28 years old. We have spoken to two private window contractors and a representative for Home Depot. The private contractors seem to be leading us toward Milgard, one toward the Tuscany and the other toward the Style Line Series. The Home Depot representative is encouraging us to go with the Simonton CV500. Which brand and series would you recommend?
Thank you for your help.

Sally - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

I would go with the private contractor and the Milgard. You will pay more for it, but it's a better window and hopefully better installation. The Tuscany should add 10% to the price over the Styleline and is worth it in my opinion. I like the Tuscany, it's well made and while not flashy, it's a decent performer, and has some good features.

Simonton Daylight Max 7300 Windows Reviews

The Simonton Daylight Max window or 7300 series is sold exclusively through Home Depot. The Daylight Max uses a more narrow frame, which provides more glass and viewing area. The windows comes standard with a ProSolar low-e and argon fills on a double strength glass. It comes in a number of color and hardware options. I'm not a huge fan of Simonton''s hardware, it's a bit cheap looking, although I do think their upgraded options are nice.

Performance wise, the Daylight Max 7300 series offers better numbers than I was expecting (these are for the slider): 0.06 air leakage rating, 0.29 U-factor, .028 SHGC, and .54 visible transmittance. The frame doesn't feel quite as sturdy as I'd like, but there are always going to be downsides when you're maximizing glass area.

All in all, not a bad window for the price you can often get it at HD. I would caution consumers who hire the subs from HD. Some are undoubtedly good, but the company doesn't pay the installers very well and this is often reflected in the price.

Dane - Site Editor

Simonton 6100 Series vs. Pella 250 Series

We are in central Florida and obviously the summers are quite warm and sticky. We've received a number of bids and would love to get some input in terms of pricing and company. We need to remove and replace 15 windows.

Pella 250 Series (Lowes): $10,660

Simonton 6100 Series (Home Depot): $15,238

Renewal by Anderson: $30,000

Bran - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Bran, the RBA quote is way too high. I like the Simonton 6100 Series, but it's too expensive. I'm not a huge fan of the Pella 250 series, but I like the price. I think you should get a few more bids, maybe on the Simonton Reflections 5500. I would think it would be close to what you were quoted out at for the 6100 series. Sometimes HD doesn't have the best bids compared to a local rep with less overhead.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton Daylight Max vs. Milgard Tuscany

Hello Dane and Tim, I like in the Seattle, WA area and am needing to replace my windows on an unscheduled basis. I have Comfort Design (CDI) “Comfort” series windows that were extremely poorly installed. All of them protrude from the house about an inch and one is right under the drip edge of the siding, so that water has been able to pool against the siding and rot it.

That one is literally falling out of the house right now since it seems to have been mostly held in by caulk and one of the caulked surfaces has rotted. I suspect the windows themselves aren’t great either, since the bay window frame has some cracking on the exterior as well and the seals on the sliding door have failed.

I want to put decent windows in that I’m not going to have to worry about, but it is hard to find good comparison info on windows. I really, really just want to do this once. I read through a bunch of entries on your site and it seems that the Milgard Tuscany is one of your most common recommendations. But one of the answers on your site also suggested Anlin as better than Milgard for year 8 and beyond, and those aren’t available here apparently.

I plan to be here another ~20 years minimum, so if there are problems around the 8 year mark that is going to be my problem again. For this kind of money, I want to have reasonable confidence that I won’t have to deal with them for the longest possible time.

So far, after tax, Milgard Tuscany comes in at $12,800, and Simonton Daylight Max at $13,200, both including repairing the rot I know about and replacing the window seat area of the bay window and the interior wood casing (there is the seat, a wood “roof” to the area the same size as the seat and wide wood vertical pieces before the windows start) which was heavily water damaged by the previous owner keeping plants directly on the wood. It also replaces the master bedroom sill, which is similarly water damaged.

Those quotes seem high to me based on your site, but maybe my windows are bigger than average? Approximately $4000 (varies a bit between brands) of those quotes is just dealing with the bay window. I was surprised that the Simonton ones were actually higher than the Milgard Tuscany ones based on what I read from you guys as well. The contractor for both of those is the same, and comes highly recommended from a number of my coworkers.

I also have a bid from Pella for their 150 series on most and 250 on the bay and slider at $12,500. I work at a large company and there is a vocal minority of people with Pella windows in one of the homeowner social discussion forums that are huge fans. They haven’t explicitly put the siding repair, window seat or master bedroom sill in the quote (those things all have line items in the Milgard and Simonton quotes), but the person that came out for the quote verbally and in email said those things are built in.

I am waiting on it to show up in a revised contract before I would sign anything, but I’m assuming he’s operating in good faith for the moment. The contractor for those is apparently Pella themselves, using W2 employees. The 150 series seems to be .29 u-value while the 250 series seems to be .27.

Anderson is coming tomorrow to bid, since I heard they have decent windows, albeit with an annoying high pressure sales pitch. If anything, they are a good price check.

With this set of things, do the prices seem reasonable? I expect that keeping good employees with the construction boom here adds some cost; but with the numbers in your other answers, the price per window seems high. Is Milgard Tuscany still your choice out of these? Is there a fourth bid I should get? I want to get on SOMEONE’S schedule this coming week due to lead time and minimizing how much of the winter rainy season I’m depending on plastic taped up around the known-bad window to keep the water out.

Thanks a bunch for reading and your help!

Matt - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Matt, I have to say that the Pacific Northwest stumps me a bit in terms of finding a good window. The Milgard Tuscany is a decent window as is the Daylight Max. The Pella 250 is probably somewhere in that region too, certainly no better the the Tuscany. I would say the Tuscany, followed closely by the Daylight Max. I've looked at the performance data at the Daylight max in an awning and casement and found them to be impressive. Worth considering.

The bids seem high on the face of it, but it is due to all that work on the siding and to the Bay window. But more bids will give you a better overall picture of the cost of the project.

If I was going to make a recommendation on a window I thought would be in your area, it would be the Simonton Reflections 5500 series or the Simonton Impressions 9800 series. Either of these would be a better window than the selections you have. But again the Daylight Max in the casement might be an option.

Ask your contractor if he has access to more Simonton options. Their premium windows with a glass upgrade are pretty solid, especially with a contractor who is used to working with the brand.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton Daylight Max STC Rating

I think I may now consider interior window inserts for noise reduction as the more I read, the more it seems they provide better noise reduction for a much lower price. The only reason I can see to get new windows instead is if doing so will increase the sale price of my home.

Thank you again!

Lisa - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Answer]

Lisa, I'm not sure you mentioned the salesman had the STC ratings of 33/35. That sounds about right and actually these are pretty decent numbers. You may want to consider the Daylight Max with this STC -- it's not an amazing STC rating, but for the price, it's pretty darn good.

I agree that you could go with inserts and save some money. The only issue with the inserts is opening and closing the windows, which I'm not sure applies to you or not, but keep this in mind.

One company that I really like for inserts is Indow windows out of Portland Oregon. Give them a ring and see if they have a rep who services San Francisco, I would bet they do. Their website has some nice info in terms of how the inserts work and what they cost.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton Daylight Max vs. AMI 80 Series

Hi Dane, We have quotes from 2 companies and would like to get your suggestions in choosing the best value. Below are the quote for 25 windows, 1 sliding doors and 1 French door.

I like Simonton windows, they are a good company and generally make a decent vinyl window.

If you upgraded to the Milgard Tuscany then I would have to give the nod to the Milgard option, although I'm not a huge fan of their pocket sill.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton 7300 For Sausalito California

Hi Tim, we are trying to replace about 20-25 windows around the house. We are looking into getting vinyl windows. Wondering about your review on Simonton window series 7300 windows?

Replacing windows are not so cheap but also we want to use right windows for our house. Our house is in Sausalito, Ca.

Anne - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Anne, the Simonton Daylight Max is not a bad window by any means. If I were buying this window, I would upgrade to the best glass package I could afford. In terms of air infiltration, the window is a bit all over the place so I would make sure you are buying a window with a sub .10 air infiltration rating. Here is a link to the Daylight 7300 Air Structural Data. The company makes a better window in the Impressions 9800 and the Reflections 5500 series, so that's something to consider. Simonton offers a nice warranty and is a strong company in general.

If you want some comparison quotes from different companies, try Anlin, Amerimax, and Milgard. They should have local companies around SF that carry these brands. I would say these four companies all make pretty solid vinyl windows that are all available throughout most regions of California.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton Daylight Max vs. Anlin Panoramic Series

My small condo on the southern California coast has a total of 3 vinyl (casement) windows - a single pane, a double pane and a triple pane. (The center pane on the triple is fixed, does not open). Salt air does a job on the casement hardware, plus when the windows swing open they encroach on my (already small) patio space. So I want to change to sliders (XO and XOX) on the double and triple, respectively, and a single hung on the smaller single pane window. All panes are about 22”W x 54”H.

For the retrofits, I think I need to use narrower frame models, so as to maximize viewing area and not deviate from the look of the existing casement windows in the building. The HOA needs to approve this project, and they won’t want the windows to look too different from the exterior from what’s already there.

So far I have quotes from 4 contractors; 2 on Simonton Daylight Max, 1 on Anlin Panoramic, and 1 on Alside Montrose. I’ve eliminated the Alside for quality reasons. To do the job with Simontons was quoted at $3,365 and $2,175, respectively (big difference). Anlin was quoted at $3,245. I want to get one more Anlin quote, which I am looking for now. But first of all, don’t you think these prices (even the lowest) are high for this small, 3 window job? I like the feel of the Anlin, but if I have to pay an extra $1,100 (about 50% more!) for the project to get Anlin, not sure it’s worth it. How much more should I be willing to pay for Anlin than Simonton in this case? We do plan to keep this condo for the foreseeable future.

Your thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks!

Martin - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Martin, I took another look at the numbers on the Simonton Daylight max window and was pretty impressed by the air infiltration .06 and U-factor .29 on the sliders. I'm curious about the price difference between the Simonton quotes. Was it through two different Home Depots?

The Anlin Panoramic would be my pick of the bunch so far, although the lower Simonton quote is tough to ignore. I would be careful to properly vet the installers on this one since its so much lower.

In terms of cost, it's tough to say. These aren't three standard windows, the XO and XOX are more complex set ups -- some people might define your project as 6 windows.

You may want to throw a Milgard Tuscany quote in for no other reason than to see how it compares. If it's in that same price range, then you know the numbers are fair. I might take the lower Simonton quote back to the Anlin dealer and ask him to match it. (Or tell him that the price is more in line with what you were hoping to spend.) He probably won't match it, but I'll bet you will see something close to his lowest price point.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton Daylight Max vs. Anlin Del Mar

Hi Tim, I was found your website and reviews and I love it! I wanted to ask a question. I'm in the middle of a window replacement project and the two brands I have been looking at are the Simonton DaylightMax and Anlin Del Mar Series.

I know the U-value difference between the two are .29 and .26 which isn't much. I know the Anlin windows use a 3/8" and 1/8" glass where the Simonton is a 1/8" and 1/8". I also know the Anlin has a fancy ball-bearing roller to help with opening the windows. Other than that, I can't see any major difference.

Is there any information between the two you could share that I can't find that could help me make a better informed decision. To me it looks like the Anlin has a little more bells and whistles but both are kind of in the same ballpark but I'm just not seeing justifying the price difference. I live in San Diego where the weather is relatively mild most of the year. I don't have to deal with extreme heat or cold for long periods of time.

Steve - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Steve, the Anlin is the better of the two windows for fit, tolerances, and air infiltration. However, I would be hard pressed to say you should spend $6K more on the Del Mar over the Daylight Max. San Diego is a pretty mild climate

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton Daylight Max vs. Anlin Del Mar Take 2

Good morning -- I happened upon your site and am wondering if you could give me an opinion on choosing between the Simonton Daylight Max and the Anlin Del Mar replacement windows? I live outside of Sacramento, CA; temperatures range from 28 degree lows in the winter to 112 highs in the summer. Thanks very much -

Robyn - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Robyn, both of these windows are decent, but the Simonton Daylight Max is not as good as the Anlin Del Mar window. The Daylight Max is more of an entry level/mid range vinyl window that uses a thinner frame with more glass area. Go with the Del Mar option and you will be quite happy come year 8 and beyond.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton 7300 Daylightmax vs Anlin Panoramic

Hi, I'm looking at Anlin Panoramic retrofit Windows, for the 2.5 inch verses the 3.5 inch frame for bigger views. Are these as good as their Del Mar and Catalina series Windows?

Also comparing them to Milgard and Simonton 7300 Daylightmax series. How do any of these compare to Amerimax? What series do you recommend from Amerimax? Can't find a distributer/installer yet for Amerimax and the Anlin rep told me Amerimax is rumored to about to go out of business? Any info on this?

What do you recommend please? The Anlins and Simontons are about equally priced.

Thanks so much,

Bob - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Bob, the Anlin Panoramic is a good vinyl window, but because they are maximizing the glass area, you will lose some performance and possibly some long term durability. Not much, but there is always a trade off in these decisions. The Del Mar and Catalina use a slightly stronger frame, but you lose out on the extended glass area. All of their windows are solid though so I wouldn't worry about it too much.

I would put the Anlin windows on par with the Milgard Tuscany, although I might give the nod to the Anlin. I would definitely go with the Anlin over the Simonton 7300 Daylightmax series. I think Anlin makes the better window. Normally, I see bids on Anlin that are much more expensive than Simonton.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton Daylight Max vs Milgard Tuscany

Good morning, my wood-sided 'ranch' house was built in the 80's and I have black aluminum framed windows. Some of the glass panes have become 'foggy'. Also, some of the frames don't glide smoothly anymore. My husband wants to have the windows replaced with the Milgard Tuscany retrofit windows. Is it better to use the retrofit windows or do a complete replacement although they are much more expensive? (I don't like how wide the frames are with retrofit windows -at least on the houses I've seen that have been 'retrofitted'. Thank you for your assistance.

Lynne - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Lynne, this is certainly the trade off with retrofit windows, this loss of glass area. The full replacement windows can be expensive, especially depending on what material is on the outside of your home. A cheap option is to go with something like Indow windows, which are interior inserts, and are much cheaper than replacement windows. They aren't for everyone, but they are an option if you can find a dealer. Google "Indow windows in Texas" and see if anything comes up.

The other option if you want to keep the cost low and go retrofit is to find a more narrow frame. The downside here is the energy efficiency that the window will produce. A mid range product with a narrow frame is the Simonton Daylight Max and a high end vinyl window option is the Sunrise Restorations. The one nice option on the Sunrise is an interior laminate that looks very close to wood, but is actually a vinyl and doesn't require the same maintenance and care as wood.

Beyond this, I'm not quite sure what to tell you. Ultimately, you have to go with one or the other. I can't quite understand why the industry doesn't come up with a solution that makes it easier and cheaper to "swap" out windows, but they don't.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton 7300 Daylight Max

I am looking at 6200 Series Simonton slider with a vantage point clear view window by home depot or a 7300 Simonton daylight max slider and window by another window co. Which series is better is better?

Alice - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Alice, the 6200 series is probably the better of the two, but not by a whole lot. The Daylight max window uses a slightly narrower frame that will provide more viewing area, but will sacrifice a bit in terms of performance numbers. However, I'm not a big fan of HD installation as a general rule of thumb, I worry that the subcontractors won't do a great job and then it won't matter what window you bought. If you do go with HD, make sure to speak with the installer and ask him for a quick rundown on how the install will go and see how thorough his answer. Ask this same question of the other installer and see how their answers compare.

I would say go with the better installer over the better window since these two are so close and made by the same company – basically they are both no frills mid range vinyl windows, one is marketed as a west coast model and the other is marketed as a HD exclusive model. The quality of the install should be the difference.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton 7300 Reviews

We are in Valencia California and looking at vinyl windows. Our local well reviewed company has Simonton 7300 Daylight Max and I'd like your comparison thoughts between this and Milgard Tuscany series. We have a mixture of block frame and aluminum retrofit windows. Is there something else we should be looking at?

Colin - Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Hi there Colin, The Simonton 7300 Daylight Max is an okay to decent vinyl window, but I would say the Milgard Tuscany is a better and more durable window. There are some very solid vinyl window manufacturers in California that I would suggest you take a look at and see if there are any local companies that carry them. One is Milgard, which you already have a bid for. The other two that come to mind is Anlin and Amerimax, I would suggest their mid range vinyl options if you want to maximize your long term value.

Simonton 7300 Daylight Max Windows

I'm interested in heat, noise reductions and keeping the house warmer and without drafts in the winter. I live in Anaheim, CA. Thank you.

Marsha - Consumer - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Marsha, the Simonton 7300 Daylight Daylight Max Series is going to be sold on the west coast - I see you are in Anaheim so this certainly makes sense. This window uses a narrow frame, which means better glass area and less energy efficiency. It comes standard wth ProSolar glass, which is a standard low-e1 and argon fill combo. It uses a stepped sill, which is a decent design feature and comes with a single lift rail. The double and single hung windows offer a tilt in feature for easier cleaning, which is nice.

It's pretty close in terms of number and features to the Simonton Madeira model. Overall, it's a decent window, but check the nfrc.org website for performance numbers and you are going to see it's certainly no world beater. Are there better windows out there? Probably.

Since you are in California, I would also suggest getting a bid from an Anlin dealer, as well as an Amerimax and Milgard dealer. All quality vinyl window manufacturers and honestly probably all a step above Simonton.

Simonton StormBreaker Plus Windows Reviews

The StormBreaker Plus is Simonton's impact or hurricane window and is considered a good impact window option that gets the job done, without breaking the bank. It is often considered one, if not the best, of Simonton's vinyl window series.

The StormBreaker Plus uses a 0.90 inch glass interlayer. (As a point of reference, the Simonton Impressions 9800 series can be upgraded to a hurricane compliant window but has a 0.60 inch glass interlayer.) The StormBreaker also uses a laminated glass and a steel sash reinforcement. Consumers can expect a 60 to 80 design pressure rating, which is quite impressive. (Most vinyl windows come standard with a 25 to 40 DP rating)

In terms of hurricane windows, the StormBreaker should be considered an affordable option from a well respected window company.

Dane - Site Editor

Simonton Stormbreaker vs. Viwinco OceanView

Tim, we were considering the Viwinco OceanView impact window but now I think we may be headed toward a Simonton Stormbreaker. We live in one of 4 condos that use about 30 windows each of the Simonton Pro Finish Masters that are about 13 years old and out of 120+ windows have had only one issue (other than pivot pins) and that was a seal. I spoke to Simonton this morning about their product for our new home and found out what we had was under warranty still. I was quite pleased! VERY helpful customer service lady named Natalie Card.

Anyway, thanks for your recommendation and if any of our experience is of value I would be happy to do a writeup with pics and such for your page both for the old and the new.

Bill - Homeowner - from 2019

[Site Editor's Answer]

Bill, great to hear your experience with the Simonton rep went so well. I think the Simonton Stormbreaker is a quality impact window and one that should serve you well. Good luck on your project!

Dane - Site Editor - from 2019

Simonton Storm Breaker Plus vs. CWS 8100 Series

We have two large sliding doors and a handful of windows that need to be replaced in our Florida condo. The Simonton Storm Breaker Plus bid is $2000 less than the bid from the contractor using the CWS 8100 and 8200 for the windows and 8800 doors.

Can you provide me with some insight into which option you would go with.

Laura - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Laura, both companies have a solid reputation for impact windows, although CWS is probably better known for their focus on impact windows. I do like the Simonton Storm Breaker Plus though -- it's a good impact window/door. The CWS 8000 models are quite good.

I would basically say that the two products are on par with one another. Therefore, all things being equal in the installation department, I'd go with the cheaper of the two.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

StormBreaker Plus Glass Issue

Hello Dane, I have had windows replaced with StormBreaker Plus form Simonton Windows. The two window sliders are perfect and have a normal reflection. The windows look clear with no distortion in the reflection from the outside.

The larger three pane slider is the concern. The fixed center window and the two sliding windows have a diffused reflection. In other words the windows have a waviness and causes the reflection to be distorted. This is due to an uneven surface that causes many deviations at the vertex where the point of incidence and the point of reflection meet. The waviness causes many points of contact with deviations in the angle of reflection.

This results in such a bizarre reflection and a wavy pattern when viewing the window from the outside. Minor waviness is stated in the warranty information as being outside of the warranty, but when such large distortion is noticeable it should be covered under warranty.

[Site Editor's Answer]

Charles, my sort of official position on EAS is that I don't know enough about them to endorse them or not endorse them.

Simonton makes a good mid range vinyl window, although they manufacture a whole slew of models so I would need to know which series...with Simonton I think you need to go with their premium models like the Reflections 5500 or Impressions 9800 series. The Storm Breaker model is quite good as well.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Stormbreaker Plus Impact Windows

[Site Editor's Answer]

John, I'm not a huge fan of Jeld Wen to be honest and especially not for impact windows. I'm not even sure if they sell an impact window. You should try and find a dealer who sells the Stormbreaker Plus impact window.

They make a good impact window at a reasonable price.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton Coastal Line

Hi Dane, I’m replacing all 17 windows in my 1951 masonry block Florida home with impact windows. We have aluminum awning style windows now (not original). We used Simonton awning style windows in a bath addition we built in 2008 and I like them very much. I like the function of awning style windows - we can leave them open in pleasant weather when its raining. I like the look of three windows stacked (vs. two which looks like a double hung), but mulling three windows together takes a lot of space visually. Suggestions?

Also, I got a quote from Home Depot for the 17 windows a month ago - the Simonton Coastal line - for $24,270. High? About right? With this line of windows, we’d need to add hurricane shutters.
Thanks for your advice!

Mary- Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Lots of homeowners will combine awning and casements that can account for different spacial configurations. This keeps the cost down as you don't have to have custom window and installation requirements.

In terms of the Simonton Coastal line costs, that sounds high to me. $1400 per window installed isn't chump change! I would definitely get a bid from PGT and CWS and compare these prices. This will also give you two professional opinions on configuration options etc. Being on site is much easier to give specific opening advise than sight-unseen. Both PGT and CWS are in my opinion better quality windows than Simonton. Get the bids and see how they compare. Feel free to send them back to me and I'm more than happy to give you my two cents.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

[Mary's Reply]

Thanks! I had an installer come out yesterday to provide a bid on PGT windows. Apparently hurricane windows aren’t readily available in many sizes in awning, so it’s a combo of awning for the small windows, casement for the medium size windows and sliders for the long runs of windows (75”+ long). In this way, I cut down on the total number of windows (one of the long runs was about 9’ long and currently three windows mulled together).

I appreciate your advice.

Mary- Homeowner - from 2017

Simonton Stormbreaker Plus vs. CWS 8100

We received a quote from FHIA for (7) CWS 8100 windows and (2) 8200 windows for $9,676. The 8200's are 5' and 6' wide. All windows are impact resistant and have Low-E 366 tempered glass. The total area is 93.34 sq feet and based on estimates I found on your page the installed costs should be between $55 & $85 per sq ft.

Ours is about $104/sq ft. FHIA says that their installation includes any remediation required including replacement of any rotted or damaged wood. Does this look like a reasonable price?

Bill - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Bill, I'm not sure if it's a good bid or not. Impact windows should run at the top end of that price range, so your $104/ sq ft. is obviously higher than that. If there is wood rot in the existing frames or sills, then that price can jump really quickly. I would get two more bids -- one from a local company who sells PGT windows and another from a company who sells the Simonton Stormbreaker Plus. If you can't find the latter, find a Simonton rep who will sell you the 9800 series with the upgrades to make them hurricane compliant.

These two bids should be enough to tell you if your first bid is legit. Then you have three bids to choose from and you can use the bids to work the price down.

Here's some food for thought in terms of getting the bids you get a low as possible!
http://www.replacementwindowsreviews.co/review-topics/negotiating-a-home-window-bid.html

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton Stormbreaker Plus vs. Viwinco Oceanview

I'm searching for new construction windows for my coastal home. The builder we are using suggested impact windows and sliding doors from either Simonton or Viwinco. It's one sliding door and maybe 20 double hungs. Any opinions on these two companies? The two products my builder prefers are the windows and sliding glass doors by the two companies mentioned above. Thanks.

Dan - Homeowner - from 2014

[Contractor Response]

The Simonton Stormbreaker is their hurricane window and it's a tank. And it's pretty darn affordable (the Viwinco Oceanview should will less expensive, but it's not as good as the Stormbreaker). In general, Simonton makes a good mid-grade vinyl window and they have very good customer service.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

[Dan's Response]

Hey Dane, thanks for the feedback. I was able to get the overall cost dropped by about 23% which put the cost of the Simontons about $1000 more than the Viwinco windows.

Dan - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Dan, that's a great price reduction, I would say you are set to go with the Simonton Stormbreaker window. It's a very solid impact window that should serve you well.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton StormBreaker Plus vs Eastern Architectural Windows

Can you compare the Simonton StormBreaker Plus vs Eastern Architectural Bertha products for me? I have 11 windows and 3 SGD....all vinyl impact resistant as I live in Cape Coral, FL. Simonton quote was $20k and Eastern was $16k...installed. This is for my young son's starter home and I doubt they'll be there more than 5-7 years. Any input will be greatly appreciated.

Mel - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Answer]

Mel, I don't hear much about Eastern Architectural Products and I tried to download their product brochure but they make you fill out some form. (I wasn't impressed with this tactic given that they should want consumers to know as much about their windows and doors as possible.) I know they focus on Florida and I believe they are owned by Eastern Metal. I believe they make a solid vinyl window, but I can't voch for them.

The Stormbreaker Plus is a good impact window that is often sold at a competitive price point. I often recommend this, as well as PGT and Custom Window Systems impact windows for your area. You may want to get a bid from these companies and see how they compare.

Normally, I would say go with the Simonton StormBreaker Plus, tired and true, but the fact that this is a starter home gives me pause. I would say this, compare the U-value, Design Pressure and Air Infiltration numbers between the two windows and see how close they are. If they are close to one another, I think you probably go with the less expensive option.

I always feel sort of guilty with this recommendation because someone down-the-line might bear the cost (the next homeowner), but my advise is for you and not them.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton vs PGT Hurricane Windows

We are forced to replace a large window with two awning windows and two plate glass windows. Total width is 196" and height is 62". We live in Florida, on a river, and close to the gulf - obviously a hurricane zone. Can you compare PGT class C window to Simonton class D window, please. This window faces the south, which is on the river. We have estimates that are very similar in price.

Deanna - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Deanna, PGT in my opinion is the superior window to the Simonton. Now, I will say that the installation quality would push me one way or the other, so if there is a noticeable difference between the two (reviews, reputation, etc.) then this would be my deciding factor.

But all (installation) things being equal, I would have to go with the PGT hurricane windows over Simonton hurricane windows.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton StormBreaker Windows

I'm looking to purchase a home from a builder in Fl. who has won "Builder of The Year" awards on multiple occasions. I'm a bit concerned because he will be using the MI high impact windows (Storm Armor)if I purchase the home. I cannot find any reviews on these MI windows and was wondering if these are rated any better than the non-impact windows they sell. Thanks for your feedback on these windows.

Don - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Don, MI does not have a stellar reputation in the industry, but I know lots of builders like them, I'm assuming because they get them at a good price and they figure the windows are "good enough." I don't know much about the Storm Armor series. I'm sure they are better than the standard MI vinyl windows, but that isn't a recommendation by any means.

I would ask the builder for two other impact options or brands that he could order. If he does, see if you can compare the performance to the Storm Armor, specifcally the Depsign Pressure Rating, U-factor, Air Infiltration Number and Condensation Resistance Rating.

I would ask if he has access to PGT, Custom Window Systems, Stanek or the Simonton StormBreaker Plus window. Without knowing anything about the Storm Armor, I would think that the options I mentioned would be a better long term solutions than the MI. Each of the companies makes a very solid impact window that will be more expensive than the MI, but isn't going to be exorbitant.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton Stormbreaker Plus Reviews

I'm searching for new construction windows for my coastal home. The builder we are using suggested impact windows and sliding doors from either Simonton or Viwinco. It's one sliding door and maybe 20 double hungs. Any opinions on these two companies? The two products my builder prefers are the windows and sliding glass doors by the two companies mentioned above. Thanks.

Jennie - Homeowner - from 2014

[Contractor Response]

The Simonton Stormbreaker is their hurricane window and it's a tank. And it's pretty darn affordable (the Viwinco Oceanview should will less expensive, but it's not as good as the Stormbreaker). In general, Simonton makes a good mid-grade vinyl window and they have very good customer service.

Rick - Contractor - from 2014

Simonton StormBreaker Plus Windows

Just bought a place in Miami Dade County and need to upgrade the windows to impact low-e2 that are hurricane code ready. What would be a fair price and what are some good brands to look at? I have someone coming out in the next day or two who sells Simonton impacts, but I'm not sure they sell low-e2 windows with an impact glass. I've also been considering Silverline, which is owned by Andersen and I know that they have a good reputation.

Ray - Homeowner - from 2009

[Contractor Response]

Simonton makes a good window, a whole level or two above Silverline and not that much more expensive, maybe $50 or $75 more for each window. If your choice is between these two brands, the Simonton wins every day of the week. Silverline was purchased by Andersen, but the brand is pretty low on the totem pole when it comes to quality. The purchase was just a way to get Andersen a cut of the vinyl window market. I wish they would have bought something else, maybe Gorell, that would have been a good move. I don't think Andersen wanted to buy a really strong vinyl window company for fear that they would start to cut into their profits.

Simonton Madeira Windows Reviews

Simonton Madeira vs. Milgard

Hi Dane and/or Tim. I really appreciate your site. It's one of the few places I've found to get some good information on replacement Windows. I've been researching replacement windows for about 6 weeks now and feel no closer to making a decision than before.

Almost decided on Milgard Tuscany windows but had a low quality feeling when testing

Alside has had a bad rap in the past but the Insignia the salesperson brought seemed like a nice hefty window

Not sure what to do now, curious abut Champion but unsure if it's worth the time

The Full Story

My family and I moved into a 1983 two story home last September. After a very drafty winter we are looking for ways to improve comfort in our home. We already have plans to foam insulate under the floor which has many bats of fiberglass insulation falling down and we are going to do some work in the attic. There's no getting around it however, our old aluminum windows, despite being double pain are incredibly chill inducing.

Unfortunately, living in Washington, our choices for quality window companies seem few. I've read many of the blogs and have found the preferred window brands unavailable in our area. For example, Soft-lite, Sunrise and Okna are all unavailable in our area.

We started by having someone come by to give a quote but this guy turned out to be a salesman who tried selling us a Simonton Madiera (which seems like a fine window) for almost $1,400/window.

We quickly learned that this is the norm as we had another come by and offer us Ply Gem 2 windows for nearly $1,200/window. Again, the window seems OK but that price seems crazy.

Most recently we had a rep from Apex come by and he offered an AMI window that comes with a lot of upgrades (they call it Insignia) for about $800/window. This was their promo home rate which I don't really know what I think about that.

I have a quote for the same window sold under the Revere brand. This quote comes from Window Universe which are the same guys that run the blog "The Window Dog." I've found that blog to be a great resource and they seem to know their stuff. But the reviews of Window Universe are not very good. So while they seem knowledgeable it seems they have some kinks to work out with their installers. That quote was the lowest I've seen btw, $490/window.

I know Alside windows don't have the best reputation but the sample that the Apex guy brought over was actually one of the nicer vinyl windows I've gotten to mess with. I had all but decided on Milgard at one point but I tried them out at Home Depot and they seemed really flimsy, very light and the sash wobbled as it went up and down. An installer ball-parked me $600-$800/window for Milgards installed. He was a straight-up installer, no marketing or salespeople.

The other window sold in our area that I've been told is good quality is Champion but I know they only sell through their dealers and I really don't want to go through another 3 hour spiel only to end up with another $30,000 quote.

So now, I have no idea what to do. The window I see get the best reviews that is available in our is Milgard but they were somewhat flimsy feeling, especially compared to the Alside window we tried. Am I missing something about Milgard? Any advice?

Dennis - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Wow, $1400 per window for a Simonton Madeira, that is quite a hail mary on the salesperson's part. I'm glad you didn't go with that. Typically on the West Coast, I recommend three brands: Milgard, Anlin and Amerimax, but Anlin isn't available in Washington. It sounds like you didn't like the look and feel of the Tuscany, which is the window I often recommend. I'll admit it isn't the best window out there, but it's a decent middle of the road vinyl window in my opinion. But if you didn't like it, don't put it in your house.

I'm not a huge fan of Alside or AMI so I have a hard time recommending either of these.

If you are getting a bid of $600 to $800 for Milgard Tuscany, then your project must be a bit more complicated than your typical one.

Champion makes a good vinyl window. Tell them that you already have four bids and you want them to come out, measure, and give you their best bid. Tell them you don't have time to sit around and listen to some spiel, you just want their best bid.

Can you get a bid for Amerimax and see if they are available in your zip code?

What about taking a look at the Andersen 100 at a Home Depot and finding a good local installer?

Maybe a quote from Marvin on their Integrity or Infinity, but they might be quite pricey.

This is a tricky one...I'd keep getting bids and be honest with them that you have a bunch of bids and need a good vinyl window in the $500 to $660 range.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton Madeira vs Milgard Tuscany Doors

Hello Tim and Dane, I was googling window/door brands that were quoted to me and found your site. There was a Q&A I read about several brands, but I did not see a discussion on the Simonton Madeira vs Milgard Tuscany. Two contractors quoted me closely on these two, and I just want to know which one you would recommend. The Simonton Madeira quote was about $100 more than the Milgard Tuscany quote, so it really just boils down to door quality etc, and not price anymore.

My house faces the west and gets a lot of sun. We also had a problem with a leak with our current french doors which is why I thought about changing to sliding doors since I had to address the problem anyway. I hope you can help. Thank you, Maica.

Maica - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Hi Maica, the Madeira and the Tuscany are close in quality, I might give the nudge to the Milgard Tuscany, more out of Milgard's reputation than anything else. Typically, Milgard is going to be more expensive than a comparable Simonton so that one more reason to go Milgard. Sliding doors are quite energy efficient and I know a number of people who have switched from the French Doors to a slider (especially if French Door design is just not your thing.)

I like Milgard products, I tend to recommend them quite a bit. Good luck and let me know how it all works out!

Tim - Site Editor - from 2016

Maica's Response

Thank you so much, Tim! It was hard to decide at first because both installers were responsive. Simonton installer had more positive reviews on Yelp but the Milgard installer is diamond certified (not sure how much weight that carries though). With your advice, the price, and the brand all aligning, I will go with Milgard.

Simonton Prism Bronze Windows Reviews

The Simonton Prism series are nearly identical to the Reflections series. Originally, the Prism series were sold in one part of the country and the Reflections were sold in another. Today, the Prism line is much less common and sold exclusively through the Norandex company. However, when Norandex was purchased by ABC Supply, the Prism series was relabeled as the Simonton Perfexion. The Prism Bronze model is the lower end of the Prism models and was equivalent to the Reflections 5100 series.

Tim - Site Editor

Simonton Prism Bronze vs Sunrise Restorations

The one company only sells Restoration. I asked for middle of the road for the Simonton. The sample he brought said Prism Bronze on it but from what I can tell on your website, that is no longer being made.

Any opinions or suggestions that you can give me will be greatly appreciated.

Not sure where else to get estimates. We have Window World and Ideal Window companies here in Iowa but their windows are not that great.

Sharon - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Sharon, the Restorations bid is so much more than the Prism Bronze. I would much prefer you get a quote on the Simonton Prism Platinum window over the Bronze, it is a much better window. I would imagine it would be somewhere in the $4000 to $4500 range (based on the Prism Bronze quote...) The Restorations is a great window, but I think you would be fine with the Prism Platinum.

Long story short, I think you need one or two more bids because you have two such different quality windows and bids in front of you. I would agree that you should bypass Window World, but I think Ideal makes a solid mid range vinyl window. I would absolutely get a bid from their local rep and see how their prices compare.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton Prism Bronze or Simonton Platinum

Hello Dane, We own a townhouse in Maryland that is being rented out. We are replacing 5 windows (in all 3 bedrooms) and cannot decide between the Simonton Bronze or Simonton Platinum. The difference in cost is around $500. Is it worth spending that extra $500 on the Platinum? We are hiring a company we found in the Simonton website that's listed as one of Simonton window installers. Thanks so much in advance for all your help. Regards, Mary Ann.

Mary Ann - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Mary Ann, I wish there were an easy answer to your question. I can tell you some of the differences between the two. The Platinum is essentially an upgrade Bronze with a better stepped sill and slightly better glass and spacer. It will offer better air infiltration and U-factor performance, but not by as much as you would think. Besides this, the Platinum simply offers more options, features, colors and styles.

If the question was, "is it worth it for my primary home, I would say yes." A townhouse that you are renting out, I'm not completely sure. I'm leaning towards...no. But that's me. I sort of think this one is a coin flip.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton Prism Bronze Windows vs Great Lakes

I've narrowed down my window selections tothe Great Lakes Seabrooke and the Simonton Prism. First off, how does the Simonton Bronze compare to the Simonton 5500 window? I've never actually seen the GL Seabrooke, although I have read the brochure and they seem like a quality window. Are the Seabrooke and Simonton 5500 comparable? We are limited in window brands where we live, but for everything I've read I should avoid the big Home Improvement stores. Is that right?

Steve - Consumer - from 2010

[Site Editor's Response]

Steve, let's start out with the Simonton question. The Simonton Bronze is the equivalent of the Simonton Reflections 5050 Series, which is the entry level Reflections model - it goes 5050, 5300, and 5500. The Reflections 5500 series is the equivalent to the Prism Platinum, the higher end window model. I would recommend the 5300 and 5500 models, but not the 5050 or Prism.

The Simonton Prism and the Great Lakes Seabrooke window are probably on par with one another, although I would give the nod to the Seabrooke Series. In terms of Great Lakes, I would recommend upgrading to the Lifestyles or the Uniframe Series if you are able to stretch your budget a bit. It will pay off in terms of long term value.

Simonton Prism Gold Windows Reviews

Simonton Gold Prism

I live in Kansas City, Missouri, & I am wanting to replace 9 windows with the Gold Series windows. Are the Gold Series good solid windows?

The company that I am getting the price on is, going to charge me $3900.00 for 9 windows installed.

What's your opinion on this?

Thank You.

Rickey - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Rickey, you are correct in your Simonton models. The Gold is a good vinyl window, a very solid mid range window. $433 per window sounds like a very fair price to me. I'd still try to get them down to $400 a window for the Gold or see if they'll do the Platinum model for the $433 per window.

I think you're in the right price range and you have a good product. Now just see if they can sharpen their pencils a bit on that price.

Let me know how it goes!

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton Prism Platinum Windows Reviews

The Prism Platinum Simonton window is the top-of-the-line Prism Series and is virtually indistinguishable from the Reflections 5500 window. Typically, the Prism Series is sold on the East Coast and the Reflections on the West, but this isn't always the case. In general, the Prism Platinum has a nice appearance and clean sightlines, making for a very classic and streamlined appearance.

The Prism Platinum series, just like the Reflections 5500 series, is a solid vinyl window that is one of the best from this very well known manufacturer.

Tim - Site Editor

Simonton Prism Platinum Vinyl Windows

Hi Dane, I plan to replace 16 out of 27 windows in my 22 year old Central Texas single story, all brick sided house.

Due to the seasonal temperature fluctuations in Central Texas, would you please recommend whether the replacement windows should be aluminum or vinyl frames.

I have obtained 5 estimates from 5 different companies for both aluminum and vinyl frame windows. I would greatly appreciate your recommendation based upon the manufacturer and price provided below.

Thank you for your help.

NT Presidential White Vinyl Windows - 18,500

Simonton Prism Platinum Vinyl White Windows – 13,000

Zen Nirvana Vinyl White Windows – 22,000

NT Twinsulator Thermal Break Aluminum Windows - 20,500

DYC White Aluminum Windows – 14,100

All replacement windows will have Solar LowE and Argon gas

- Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Paul, I think you can do either vinyl or aluminum given your location. Don Young aluminum windows are considered very good and the price you have from them looks good -- obviously I know nothing about your project but the DY quote is one of the lowest priced bid.

The Simonton Prism Platinum is also a very decent window and the lowest bid.

I'm not necessarily a fan of going with the lowest bid, but in your case I think there is an argument to be made.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Large Prism Platinum Window

Your blog has been a life saver in making some sense out of window replacement!! I'm a little further in my endeavor & have rec'd my first bid.

The quote is from a Simonton rep showing the Prism Platinum double hung vinyl window. The replacement opening is 70.5"W x 58.5"H. He showed me the sample window & described how two DH windows are attached side by side. I was quite shocked to learn that the "window mull" (frame) between the two windows would be 6-7" wide! That a lot of vinyl to look at & cuts out a HUGE amount of viewing area. I don't seem to be able to find the data I need to determine what other good to very good manufacturer may have a slimmer "mull". In your expert opinion I'm hoping you can guide me. I ruled out Slider windows because of the look of my house & existing window treatments.

One other note Simonton customers might want to be aware of is the notion of egress. The Simonton rep told me that my size windows, which I didn't think were small, would not pass code by about an inch on the DH because the frame takes up so much space - another reason I'm looking for alternatives.

I did not go with the Zen dealer because he wanted me to agree to his quote by phone or email before I could even see his window or meet him. I understand his business model is "get a quote in 5 minutes," but it's my choice NOT to sign anything site-unseen.

Again, Dane, thank you for the valuable service you provide sharing your expertise & honest opinions!!

Jan - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Simonton windows tend to use quite a bit of vinyl in their frames. Is there a reason why you don't do a picture window across the span? Or if you went with a higher end brand like a Sunrise Restorations that uses a thinner frame, you might be able to do an XOX where you have casements on the side and a small picture window in the center.

I think you need to bring more people out and have them toss out ideas for the opening and really explore the options. I tend to think two double hung next to one another is an awkward look. There has got to be something better than that out there.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton Prism Platinum vs Norandex

Can you give me your opinion of the Simonton Prism Platinum versus the Norandex Extreme 8000? I have a choice between the two. Prices are comparable. Seen pro's and con's for both.

Any insight you can lend would be great! Thank you

Jarett - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Answer]

Jarett, the Simonton Prism Platinum is a good vinyl window, better in my opinion than the Norandex. I'm not even sure who actually makes the Norandex, something tells me it's a relabeled window -- maybe an Atrium -- I would stay clear of the Norandex brand if it were me.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton Platinum Prism vs Amerimax Craftsman Portrait

We are looking to replace 16 windows in our house, a combination of double-hungs and sliders. We got a pile of quotes for a variety of windows, and after deciding that we do not need high-end fiberglass windows, we have come down to the two lowest vinyl bids, Simonton Platinum Prism and Amerimax Craftsman Portrait (both double-pane). The Amerimax quote is about $1,400 less than the Simonton.

The Amerimax dealer made a big deal about the windows being made in Colorado (we are located in Denver) and that this ensures that the window will have argon in it, claiming that windows made at lower altitudes lose their argon upon being shipped to Denver b/c of the capillary systems they stick in the windows to ensure safe shipping. We are not sure whether or not give this credence?

The Amerimax quote is also for single-hung windows rather than double-hung. It is true that we often have trouble pushing the upper sash up enough to close our current windows, and to be brutally honest, we never clean the outside of our windows anyway, so perhaps the single-hung is fine. Is there something else we should consider about this?

A further question I have (which I can't seem to find an answer to) is whether one of these windows has narrower frames than the other, as I would like as much glass as possible since I feel our house can be a bit dark.

Of course, I would also like to know if either of these is more durable than the other, or has more issues with manufacture or operation, as I don't ever want to think about my windows again!

To throw a wrench in, the third lowest quote was from Zen Windows, for their Nirvana windows (which I understand are equivalent to Soft-Lite Classics). Their quote was $3,200 higher than the Amerimax, so unless there is a compelling reason to choose them over the Amerimax or the Simonton, we are not considering them. But I wanted to put them in in case there is such a reason.

Thank you for any input!!

Margaret - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Hi Margaret, you've asked some good questions here. There is concern over windows made at lower elevations and shipped to elevations over 6000 ft. However, the capillary tubes help relieve the differences in pressure that would occur with the elevation change (assuming that the company does it correctly.) There should be a number of companies that manufacture windows in or around Denver though so you should have some options (make sure to ask about the elevation changes and capillary tubes to each of the companies to make sure that they use them and feel comfortable with the process, just to be safe).

If your two main bids are Amerimax and Simonton and the Simonton is more expensive, I'd say the clear winner is the Amerimax. I like this company and their vinyl windows.

I actually like single hung windows for the very reasons you suggest, plus there are less parts and components that can fail over the years. Many contractors automatically assume a single hung is a builder grade window, but many manufacturers have been making quality single hung windows because they offer better performance and still offer the ventilation.

Zen is a good window, and you are right it is the Soft-Lite Classic model. The Nirvana is better than the Craftsman Portrait, but I probably wouldn't pay the extra $3200. I'd go with the Amerimax, which is a good quality mid range vinyl window.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2016

Margaret's Response

Thank you for your reply. I realized after I sent my question that my bid for the Zen Windows included a painted exterior, and the other two quotes did not. Once I eliminate that, the Zen Nirvana window comes in at only $1,000 more than the Amerimax Craftsman Portrait, and about $200 less than the Simonton Platinum Prism.

It sounds like from your answer that the Simonton would be your third choice of these three? I admit that, though all three installers get great reviews on BBB, Angie's List, etc., we like the Simonton installer the best, though that's more of a feeling than anything concrete. Would it be a mistake to choose the Simonton for the installer; are the other windows that much better? Thank you!!!

Margaret - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Margaret, the installation is very important, I always say 50% windows, 50% installation. The Simonton Platinum Prism is a good vinyl window, I'd probably put it on par with the Amerimax Craftsman Portrait, but I would put the Soft-Lite Classic above these. But by how much, probably not a huge amount. If it were me and these were my options, I'd go with the installer who I felt was going to do the most thorough job, installed quite a few of the window I selected, and gave me the best overall feeling (and obviously had great reviews).

I have to say on the windows alone, I'd probably go with the Zen if it's only $1000 more, but again, the installer would probably be a bigger factor with the selections you have. Let me know how your project goes!

Tim - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton Prism Platinum vs. Zen Lotus

Looking to replace 11 double hung windows and 1 large double casement and I am trying to chose a decent windows for a mid-range price. Currently have quotes on the Simonton Prism Platinum and the Zen Lotus. For installation I have a highly recommended company for the Simonton and for the Zen I would be using their contractors. I have read numerous pros and cons on both window manufactures. Pricing is slightly lower on the Zen but I am looking for recommendation on the better windows and warranties. I wouldappreciate any suggestions.

Al - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Al, the Simonton Prism Platinum window is quite a decent window, but the Zen Lotus is the better of the two. The Lotus model is the Soft-lite Classic, which is quite a nice vinyl window and the one I would go with. Make sure the Zen franchise owner and their installation team has a good reputation and offers a labor warranty.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton Prism Platinum vs Jeld Wen Builders Vinyl

I'm considering Simonton Prism Platinum and Jeld-Wen Builders Vinyl, and I could use advice. I'm getting 17 double hungs, 2 pictures, and a slider. Both are Low-E, both qualify for tax credits and have similar warranties. I don't care about the price, I just want the best window.

Mary - Homeowner - from 2009

[Contractor Response]

The Simonton Prisms have a stronger frame and they'll last longer with fewer problems. They are, however, a lot more expensive than the Jeld Wens. If price really doesn't matter, the Simontons are a much better choice.

Daniel - Contractor in Texas - from 2009

Simonton Prism Platinum 6500 Review

Over a year ago I got Prism Platinum 6500s put on my house. The house is less drafty, our energy bills went down. We have mostly casements and the cranking mechanism is very nice, smooth movement and good hardware. They look great, too. The only thing we weren't totally pleased with is that they only come with a white exterior, so at first it didn't look quite right, but now we're used to the white and love it.

Simonton ProFinish Windows Reviews

The Simonton Pro-Finish window gets quite a bit of attention thanks to its inclusion on the 2014 Consumer Reports Best Replacement Windows where the Contractor model ranked well in the vinyl window category. The Pro Finish comes in 3 models or options, The Builder, The Contractor and The Master. Each of these model options comes as a new construction window, which means that a nailing flange or fin is included across the top and two sides for easier and more secure installation.

The Simonton ProFinish Builder model is just as the title indicates; a builder grade window that is bare bones and does not offer the sort of performance or components that are going to offer any long term value. The Contractor model is pretty close in construction and quality to the Simonton Asure window (see above). The one difference between these two is the slightly inferior balance system used by the ProFinish model. The Master model includes a few nice upgrades, including a better sash design that is very similar to the one used by the Reflections 5500 model. The Master uses a solid masterframe and should achieve a DP35, a pretty standard number in the window industry.

Bottom Line: A decent new construction window. Bypass the Builder grade and go for the Contractor or Master models. Comparable to Monte Verde window prices.

Tim - Site Editor

Simonton Pro Finish Contractor vs. Reflections 5500

I am looking for replacement windows without the tint of the low e glass. A salesman says he can get me Simonton Reflections 5500 without the low e, but it is also without argon gas. This window is not rated on Consumer Reports, but the Simonton Pro - Finish Contractor is rated 83.

A sales person from Pella suggested the 250 with natural sun glass. This window has only a 62 rating on Consumer Reports. I am also worried about it having a tint.

Each person showed me only one model. I am confused and wonder if I should look further. I would like to get a window with argon gas but no low e. Any ideas? I expect to spend from $8-12,000.

Nancy - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Nancy, the Simonton Reflections 5500 is the best window of the bunch you mentioned. It isn't rated because Consumer Reports only has access to retail windows, which most quality windows are not. Most quality windows are only sold through dealers. The Reflections 5500 is one of the best windows that Simonton sells and is a solid vinyl window.

The argon gas fills are not a big deal, they will make the window 10% more efficient, which isn't that impressive. Typically, either a window comes in a low-e with a fill or in clear glass without. That's just how it works. If you don't want the low-e, stick with the best window you can find.

The Simonton ProFinish Contractor is a decent window, but the Reflections is better in my opinion.

In general, I'm not a big fan of the Pella 250 and I think the CR rating bears this out.

Should you look further, sure, it can't hurt to get a few more bids. They're free and they help educate and inform, which can only help you make the best decision possible. You may find a company that offers exactly what you're looking for.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton Pro-finish Contractor Series

Hi, thank you for all of the information you provide on your website. We’re building a new custom home in Northern Virginia and I need advice on vinyl window options:

Our contract specifies Simonton Reflections 5500 series or equivalent windows. Our contractor said that model is a replacement window and proposed 3 other windows: Jeld-Wen Builders Vinyl, Andersen Silverline series, or MI Windows 1556 series. After researching these windows, I don’t think these are equivalent, but rather lower level/quality windows.

Do you have recommendations for budget-friendly new construction vinyl windows? I read the reviews/information on Simonton Pro-finish Contractor series – would that be equivalent to the Reflections 5500 series? We’re not looking for high end, but we want something above builder grade that’s good quality and is going to last.

Stacey - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Stacey, all three of the windows you mentioned are not high quality windows in my opinion. I think the Simonton ProFinish Master would be equivalent to the 5500. The ProFinish comes in the Contractor and Builder -- so not the Builder, maybe the Contractor

Also perhaps look at the Ply Gem Mira double hung window.

Can your contractor get pricing on the Okna 600 Eco Pro?

What about a Sunrise window?

These would be my suggestions.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton ProFinish vs. Okna 400

Hello! I have extensively researched replacements for 10 sliding windows and 3 6’ and 2 8’ sliding patio doors. Would you be able to offer an opinion on my options?

Currently considering:

Simonton ProFinish Doors
Sunrise (models above Essentials) windows

OR

Okna 400 windows
SoftLite Doors

Neither of the contractors that I like recommend the doors that match the windows so I either go fully with Simonton or mix and match. I am disinclined to use Simonton for both windows and doors.

Here is my criteria:

Maximum glass
Ease of use for doors, especially for the 8’ ones
Style to match contemporary house
Ability to have white on interior and brown tone on exterior

Also, one of the contractors has said I need to be careful about the glass used as some brands are dark. He specifically mentioned Guardian.

This has been mind boggling as I want to make a good decision. Both contractors are well recommended though I prefer the contractor who uses Simonton and Sunrise.

Thank you for your help!

Nanette - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Nanette, I like both of the options in a broad sense so that's a good start. In terms of brands alone, I would have to lean towards the Okna/Soft-Lite. Simonton is a good manufacturer, but not quite in the same league as the other three. Having said that, each manufacturer has a number of series and that has a lot to do with the quality of product you are getting. The Simonton ProFinish for instance has three grades itself so make sure you avoid that Builder model and stick with the Contractor or Master options. However, even the Okna 400 is probably as good as the top of the line from Simonton.

Simonton tends to have less glass area than other window brands, including Okna and Soft-Lite. In terms of windows, the Sunrise Restorations is one of the narrowest frames without sacrificing on performance and strength.

I would say two things: one, make sure you are able to look at the products you are buying to see how the hardware looks, how thick the frames are, how the windows and doors open and close. Hopefully there is a showroom close or the contractor has samples of the windows and/or doors to show you.

Assuming you like the look and function, I would go with the contractor you feel most comfortable with and the one who will do the best job. Bad installation issues after the fact is a much bigger deal than the small differences between the products that you won't notice once they are in your home.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton ProFinish Contractor vs Wincore Windows 7700 Series

Tim, We are looking to replace all windows in our 35 year-old home. Our contractor is a Simonton Contractor. We would use 5 picture windows, 4 sliders, 3 single or double hung, and enlarging the kitchen window to as big as possible. We live in Austin, TX.

Questions:

1) Do you recommend Simonton windows? If so, which model would be a mid-range to mid-range+ and, if you had to guess, how much might we expect to pay?

2) What do you think of the Simonton Pro-Contractor replacement windows? Where do these fall in terms of quality, look, and price relative to other common windows?

4) If we were going to enlarge our dining room window as much as possible, like a wall or 3/5 of a wall, what brand, make and model would you recommend?

5) How do we verify if a contractor is competent and reasonable and knows what they are doing?

6) How much quieter will 3-pane windows be relative to 2-pane windows?

I know this is a lot. I appreciate any information you may be able to share with us and/or any advice you may be able to provide.

Arcelia- Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Arcelia, Simonton windows are generally considered a solid manufacturer, nothing special in terms of looks or overall quality, but a decent mid range manufacturer. I always say they are like the "Ford" motor company of windows. Like Ford, they make a number of windows and I would put the ProFinish Contractor in the low-mid of range vinyl window quality. (I'm assuming this is the model you are talking about, although you didn't mention the ProFinish part anywhere in your email) The ProFinish comes in three models itself; the Builder, Contractor and the Master. The Contractor is a very similar window to the Simonton Asure series. I think if it were me, I would feel more comfortable pressing him to price out the ProFinish Master window. I feel like the Master model offers some nicer standard features and would provide some more durability and performance over the Contractor model.

Wincore makes two models, the 5400 and the 7700. I definitely like the 7700 model over the 5400. I like this window and this manufacturer, perhaps a bit more than Simonton, but only because they are smaller and offer a little more of a personal touch over Simonton, which is the largest window manufacturer in the United States. Pros and cons to both. I think I would give the edge to the Wincore 7700 series over the Simonton ProFinish Master, but I'd have to look at the following performance data before I stuck to my own opinion:

Design Pressure
Air Infiltration
U-factor
Condensation Resistance

I would stick with the same brand of window for the whole project for the sake of continuity, although if the opening is too wide across, you may have to use an aluminum clad window to support the weight across the span. This is where a good contractor comes in.

Triple pane windows will help some with the performance such as U-factor and could have an impact on sound reduction. The biggest issue with sound attenuation is the distance or space between the panes (different glass thicknesses as well but typically triple pane glass is the exact same thickness and this doesn't help much). If the triple pane option uses a deeper of thicker window frame and therefore provide more space between pane 1 and 3, then there will be some nice noise reduction. If the depth of the window frame between pane 1 and 3 is unchanged (i.e. the manufacturer basically slides one more pane between the standard pane1 pane2, then the only change would be the glass, so therefore not a ton, but a bit).

Verifying a good contractor for me begins with rock solid references. If they have worked with homes in the community, get several referrals and call up the homeowners and ask about the experience overall, the work, how it's held up, any financial problems that arose. Then check with the BBB website, look for online or social reviews of the company, make sure they are licensed and bonded.

Finally, structure the contract so that payments are made at different portions of the project, 1/3 up front, 1/3 at the half completion mark, and 1/3 at the completion mark. Also insist that there is a labor warranty guarantee in case anything goes wrong in the 1st or 2nd year. After this, there isn't much more you can do but just stay vigilant yourself as the project goes along, each day check the work, and look for anything that doesn't seem right. If it doesn't speak up -- contractors and workers tend to do a better job if the homeowner is looking at details because they know they'll have to go back and do it over if they screw up.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton Contractor vs. Jeld-Wen Siteline Auralast

Hi, I am getting ready to replace 20 windows. I have an assortment, including some picture windows, one slider, and several casement windows. My contractor is offering me the Simonton Contractor Single-hung Series. When looking at the Simonton website, I can't figure out what level of windows we are talking about. He says they are all pretty much the same except for options offered, such as hardware finishes and outside or inside color finishes.

I don't want cheap looking windows. We replaced 9 windows last year, and used Jeld-Wen Siteline Auralast windows ( wood inside with aluminum clad exterior).They are very nice, and look like quality windows, but obviously the price difference is huge (2x). Will I be getting good quality windows if I go with my contractors proposal?

Thank you. Very much appreciate your time and look forward to your response.

Mayra - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Mayra, I'm assuming that your contractor is offering the Simonton Pro-finish Contractor Series in a single hung. They is in the middle of what Simonton sells -- I think that's fair to say. The Pro-finish (and again I'm speculating that this is what he is talking about) is available in three models; the Builder, the Contractor, and the Master. Consumer Reports gives the Contractor Model a good grade, but I personally have some issues about how they test windows.

The Pro-finish also comes in the Master, which I believe is the better window and shouldn't run too much more, 20% more perhaps. If he has access to the Master model, this is the model that I would inquire about.

I would say that the Pro-finish Contractor is a mid range window and the Master is a decent window. I also like the Jeld-Wen Auralast window, which is a bit of a rarity since there aren't many wood windows that I recommend for the overall longevity of the product. The Auralast process seems to be a good one -- although time will tell if the windows last as long as their warranty says they will.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton ProFinish Windows

I recently purchased a Mobile Home built in 1989 and would like to replace nine existing windows with mid range energy efficient single hung windows. Should I be looking for a certain type, Frame & manufacturer. Are there makes of windows that are more designed for Mobile Homes? I have received one estimate from a contractor for installing (single hung profinish builder white single hung windows J channel. Would these be Simonton low end windows? Any advice on purchasing new windows for my Mobile home would be greatly appreciated!

Pamela - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Pamela, I don't think there are any specific windows for mobile homes, the biggest issue will be the frame depth and how the replacement window fits into the opening. The Simonton ProFinish model comes in three options, the Builder, Contractor and Master. The Builder is the entry level and I wouldn't recommend that one. I think the Contractor and Master would fit with what you are looking for. I also like the premium Reliabilt 3500 and 3900 series, the Sunrise Essentials or preferably the standard Sunrise series, and the Ply Gem Pro series.

Some of these options should be available in your area and you should have the companies come out and provide you with a bid so you can get pricing and also to be able to handle the windows themselves and see how they open and close, etc.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton Pro Finish Windows

Hello, I know nothing about windows and we need to replace some windows in my home. I don't want or need top of the line, but don't want cheap windows that will be a problem. We have gotten some window estimates for 8 double hung windows (bedrooms) and a large picture window with a double hung on each side. We live in Illinois and we also live on a busy road.

[Site Editor's Response]

Theresa, good for you for getting 4 bids, that's a good start. Okay, the best of the bunch is the Sunrise, although the Sunrise Essentials are their lower end model and I would stick with their standard frame or any upgraded model from here - Verde, Vanguard, Restorations. Whoever gave you the bid should have access to some if not all of these options, but their standard Sunrise frame is very good. I know nothing about Sun View windows, I did take a look at the Lindsey website, but it didn't provide me with any energy efficiency numbers or specific features on the window so I really can't comment.

Ply Gem makes a number of window series, their builder series is not very good, their Contractor series is okay and the Ply Gem Premium Series is good (probably on par with the Sunrise Standard Series). The Simonton Pro Finish Builder is not very good (they do have a Contractor Model and Master Model in the Pro Finish Series that are both decent, not fantastic, but decent Simonton quality). The Simonton 5500 Reflections series is quite a nice window (see if you can get a bid on the Simonton 9800 Series if they carry it, this is quite nice as well.)

I would take the Sunrise and Simonton 5500 Series quotes and try to get the prices down on each as much as possible (sometimes by telling them that you have several quotes for the same project for $500 less etc. and ask what they can come down to in terms of price.) Good Luck!

Tim - Site Editor - from 2015

Simonton ProFinish Master vs Viwinco Choice Windows

I'm replacing most of my windows with New construction Windows as part of residing mt house (I have access to the flanges). The original 21 year old Capitol Windows are junk. I have a 13 year old addition with Builder's First Source windows that seem ok (they're staying). I tried to match the Builder's First Source windows and ended up with two Certainteed (MI) windows in the garage... they seem ok, but it's hard to tell, since it's a garage.

The contractor has priced Simonton Pro-Finish Master and Viwinco Choice Windows. The Simonton is more expensive and I assume they better... are they? Is the difference significant?

Martin - Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Martin, the Simonton ProFinish Master window is a solid vinyl window, better than the ProFinish Builder and with a fewer nice features that don't come standard on the ProFinish Contractor (the ProFinish is available in three levels or options).

Viwinco offers two new construction windows, the S-Series and the Builder's Choice, I'm assuming that your contractor is referring to the latter option. The Simonton option is going to be better then the Viwinco. Simonton is a bigger company and you will have more options if something does go wrong. Sure, you might pay more for the Simonton, but it's a better long term option that I would hop will provide better value over the life of the windows.

As always, make sure they do a thorough job installing the windows. I think you will be happy with Simonton ProFinish Master windows.

Simonton VantagePointe Windows Reviews

The Simonton VantagePointe 6000 series is made specifically to be sold through Home Depot. It can be order in a number of options, each of which carries a different number; the 6100, 6300, and 6500 (from simplest to best). The VantagePoint is available as a single hung, double hung, picture, slider, awning, casement and a garden window. Standard features include tilt latches, dual air locks, a beveled sash, a coil balance, and extruded lift rails.

The Simonton VantagePoint is a decent vinyl window (particularly the 6500 series), but certainly not a top tier window. I haven't been able to find any data on the window, but I will post it when I do. As usual, I have issues with some HD installation and I would recommend that consumers who are looking to buy the 6100, 6300, or 6500 window from HD find their own installer to do the work.

Dane - Site Editor

Simonton 6500 Installation Question

Tim, what is your problem with Home Depot?

Did you work for them at one time or another and are a disgruntled fired employee?

Every time you review responses you are putting down Home Depot.

What's up with that?

Not sure if I trust your reviews.

Ranger - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Ranger, my issue with Home Depot installation is based on their sub contracting wage/rate that they pay their installers. The low "per window installed rate" (relative to the window industry in general) sets up a scenario that rewards as fast an installation as possible. This can lead to less than perfect installation that can lead to issues in year 7 and beyond that can cause lots of issues, problems and cost for consumers.

I'm not castigating HD in a vacuum, this is based on anecdotal evidence over the past 25 years. I'm on the side of the consumer, not HD (whose stores I happen to spend lots of money at buying consumer products, but not services.)

HD hires some very good installers who do good work. It is the other end of the companies they sub contract out with that I don't like. I don't blame the installers, but I do blame HD's wage/rate policy.

As to the quality of the reviews, love or not, my answers and advise are first and foremost to protect consumers and help them get as much value for their hard-earned money as possible.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

[Ranger's Reply]

Tim, thank you for your response. So are you saying that HD doesn't warranty their installation?

From what the HD salesman is telling me very thing is warranted for life.

Ranger - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Ranger, I'm not saying that at all. But even the warranties from the window companies themselves aren't always worth that much because after 7 or 8 years when things start going south, it is difficult to say definitively if the issue is the fault of the manufacturer or the installer. HD could claim that the problem is with the manufacturer and the manufacturer could claim it is an installation problem. Meanwhile you're left in the lurch.

The bottom line is this: buy a good product at the start and get good installation so you don't have to deal with issues down the road. If you do buy from HD, go with the very best window they sell and ask for their best installer / installation team.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

[Ranger's Reply]

Thanks for the advise.

I pulled the trigger on the Simonton 6500.

Now you got me thinking I should be looking over the installers' shoulder and video tapeing the whole install.

I have been reviewing some online videos on how to install a vinyl window correctly.

Thanks again.

Ranger - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Ranger, the Simonton 6500 is a decent enough window. Be the squeaky wheel during the install and ask for the best installation team based on past reviews.

Good luck!

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton 6200 Narrow Frame Windows

Hello Dane, I just received a bid from Home Depot for the 6200 Series Narrow Frame Simonton windows sliders & single hung. 22 windows in my 1925 farmhouse with vinyl siding for $13,877.10 which I thought was a good price. I have some pretty large windows as well.

I felt really good about this purchase until I started reading the reviews. We have had this home for 25 years & the windows now are aluminum & failing as in fogged up ie; broken seals.I live in Rainier, Oregon which is 1 hour from Portland, Oregon.

We are retired & looking to sale our home within 2 years. One of the things I liked about this window is the lifetime one time transferable warranty. But now that I have read the reviews Im very nervous to go forward with this purchase. I have 3 days to rescind the purchase. What do you think???

Kim - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Kim, this is a tricky question since you are leaving your home in 2 years. I'm not sure it makes sense to spend a ton of money. I hate this advise though because you aren't doing the next owner any favors. Whatever you buy, make sure you leave them all of the warranty information and contact numbers to help them if something does go wrong down the line.

I might get a couple more quotes to see if you can't get a decent window for a lower price -- maybe a Milgard Tuscany or even the Simonton Daylight Max. I'd be curious about pricing because sometimes HD is low and other times they bid out sort of high.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton 6200 vs. Pella 250

Hi Dane, I need to replace 12 of my windows on a 2011 home due to hail damage that my insurance is covering and I have two quotes. My insurance has approved enough to cover both but I just want to know which is the better window. From what I've seen on your website it sounds like the Simonton, but I wanted to ask the question. Also if it is the Simonton is the price too high?Thanks for your help in advance!

Lowes
Pella 250
$7,500

Home Depot
Simonton 6200
$10,149

Elgie - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Elgie, the Simonton is indeed the better window of the two. As to price, Home Depot tends to be a bit all over the place. The plus side on HD is you can price out the windows themselves and see the breakdown on product versus installation. Right now, you are paying $845 per window. I can't see the Simonton 6200 windows being more than $350 per window to buy them from HD.

I'm not a huge fan of HD installers because they are often paid per window, which means they are incentivized to go quickly. If it were me, I would probably buy the windows from HD and then go on yelp, angies list or craigslist and find a highly reputable installer and have him come give me a bid to install the windows. You will often save some money and insure that the installation is solid.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton 6100 Coastal Windows

Tim & Dane, I really appreciate your site and the work that you do. I have a Home Depot quote for replacement windows from Home Depot for the Simonton 6100 windows. We live on the coast. The quote came in at $12,687.95 for 15 windows. It would be replacing single pane aluminum windows with double pane vinyl. I have attached the quote to get your thoughts since some of my windows are rather large. However, in your opinion is there a better option for quality and price? Also, I live to the Orlando Florida area. Thanks in advance for your assistance.

Meredith - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Meredith, it's very tough to tell how fair this quote is—certainly it's in the ballpark, but I think you should get a few more quotes before you go ahead with this one. For instance, the Simonton Stormbreaker Plus is a much better coastal window than the 6100 and there will certainly be a Simonton dealer who services your zip code. I would also call up PGT and get a bid on the PGT 5400 series and see how that compares. Finally, I would have CWS come out and get a bid from them. PGT and CWS both have multiple window models so make sure to take a look at as many of their models as they have on hand and ask about pricing to see where they all stand.

The HD quote is okay, but I think you can get a better window for roughly $13K for 15 windows. That's relatively high on the face of it.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton 6100 Series vs. Pella 250 Series

Good evening!

I have been looking at your site for weeks now and going crazy on what windows to get. I live by the jersey shore. I have had 3 companies come out so far.

[Site Editor's Answer]

Justin, I'm not sure I like any of these. The Pella 250 vinyl window is okay, but the idea of paying $1000 per window is absurd. The HD 6100 series is a middle of the road window, but at $666 per window, you should be able to get something much better. I would imagine that the Renewal quote will be much higher than any of these.

It is possible that your project involves some extensive installation work that is driving up the cost, but so far I don't see any of these bids as great.

I would start by getting a bid from the local Okna dealer on their entry-level 400 series. I would also see if there is a Sunrise, Soft-Lite, Polaris, or Zen dealer that could give you a bid. All of their "entry-level" windows are going to be superior to the Simonton 6100 series or the 250 Pella series.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton 6100 vs. Okna 400

Hi, Good Morning! I just bought a townhouse and the windows need to be replaced. I've spoken to several companies but am leaning toward Home Depot and their Simonton 6100 option. The sales rep recommended that over the 6500 since I'm protected on two sides (I'm in between two other units). The quote for 12 windows is $7,500. I don't need anything too fancy since the homeowners association requires that I replace with the same style that's already in my house.

Do you have thoughts on that window and the pricing; I spoke with Pella, Renewal by Anderson, and a local company that uses Ideal. I don't need windows that cost more than my house, just a good window at a fair price (which I'm sure everyone says!). I live in Tinton Falls, NJ (central part).

Thanks so much!

Karin - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Karin, the 6100 is a decent window, but I'm not sure it's quite worth what you're paying at $625 per window. I would possibly pay that for Simonton's best windows -- the Reflections 5500 or the Impressions 9800, but I'm not sure you're getting a great deal with the 6100 at that price. HD isn't always the best deal in town—although sometimes they are.

I would suggest you find the local OKNA dealer and tell him you want a quote on the Okna lower end 400 series. Explain your situation and tell him that you want to put in a decent window, but are hoping not to spend over $500 per window. Maybe check Sunrise and Soft-Lite as well and see if there are dealers in your area. Both of their entry level windows are better than the 6100 series in my opinion.

I think you need a couple more bids to see where the fair market value of your project lies.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton 6100 Cost Quote

Tim I just discovered your website. I read several of your comments.

I just got a quote from Home Depot in Greer,SC. (I live in the Greenville, SC area.) My house is a standard brick ranch, built 1966.

The quote was for 18 windows installed, for $10,645. (After a 15% discount) using Simonton 6100, +covering all the wood trim with aluminum.

I think this was pretty high especially after reading some of your comments. Like you mentioned in a few of your comments, I'm thinking a $350 price range and $100 for labor would be a better price.

But I'm wondering if that price would include covering the trim? Also, I'd like your opinion on what good quality name brands should I look for for $350 or less?

Larry - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Larry, I agree with your cost assessment on the windows, have the installers break down what they are charging to wrap the windows so you know the cost of the window/install portion.

I would definitely get a few more bids to try and pinpoint a better price point. I'm not a huge fan of HD in general. I would look for the following brands: Simonton Reflections, Ply Gem Pro, Milgard Styleline, Okna 400, Sunrise Essentials, Soft-Lite Bainbridge, Zen Karma, ProVia Endure, and Wincore 5400.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2017

Vantage Point 6100 From HD

I live in Lake City, FL. Our house was built in 1979 and has the original aluminum windows in it. We want to replace them with vinyl windows. We also want energy efficient windows. What windows do you recommend. We only have big box stores here. I have a quote for 13 windows from Home Depot for the vantage point 6100 for $9999. Seems very high to me.

Ray - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Ray, 13 Simonton Vantage Point 6100 window for $9999 seems very high to me. Before you go any further, I'd suggest getting a bid from CWS and PGT to see how they compare. Both of their mid range vinyl windows are going to be better than the VantagePointe window.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton 6500 vs Sunrise

I got a quote for 3 double-hung windows, 5 sliders, and 1 glass patio door. The quote from Sunrise was around $9000 and the quote from Simonton 6500 was around $10,700. What are the pros and cons between the windows because the both have a double lifetime fully transferable warranty. Both windows seem equally good and durable.

Carl - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

I love getting questions like yours because they make my job soooo easy. The Sunrise windows are far and away the better window over the Simonton Vantage Pointe. And $1700 cheaper....how great is that? Go with the Sunrise and if ask the dealer to go over any potential upgrades such as foam fills, sill reinforcements, or simply an upgraded glass package. For the price of the Simontons, you could get some awesome upgrades and have a really great vinyl window.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton 6200 Sliders vs. Milgard Styleline

Hi, I've had several quotes and am not sure where to go. First, all quotes were for the lower end models without me asking except for Home Depot. All quotes were similar for lower end styles (Simonton 6200 slider was about $3k more for 13 windows so still similar respectively). Since Monte Verde glass thickness is measured in mm, my take is they save money in that respect to get slightly less than 1/8 and 3/16 in thick glass. Both of my quotes are for the "sound" limiting for street side of house.

From my understanding the Milgard Styleline is the better window of the two. However, I think I like the other installer better (just a feeling although I think both would be fine based on reviews and meeting personnel). The difference in price is only $600.

Mia - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Mia, of the Simonton 6200, Anlin Monte Verdes and Milgard Styleline, I would probably put them all on an equal footing with the nod going to the Monte Verde. I think you can toss the Simonton quote since it's so much more than the other two and its through HD, who's installation is unpredictable in my opinion. I think you are right to go with the installer/company who you feel most comfortable with. At the end of the day, the quality of the install is going to matter more than the subtle differences between the two windows.

As a side note, in terms of sound reduction, glass thickness has a small effect, while the space or gap between the double panes of glass is the biggest component. With these two windows, I would think they would have the same gap space, but it's worth an ask to both companies to see if there is a difference. In terms of glass, just make sure you are getting a double strength glass, and pay for the upgrade if it doesn't come standard.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton Vantage .66 vs Imperial LS

Hi Tim, I'm a new home owner and the windows need to be replaced. I've gotten 3 quotes for 9 windows and a sliding patio door. 1 of the quotes is for softlite imperial ls with new trim for 13158.00 and 1 is from Simonton for Vantage .66 for 11000.00 without the trim. (By trim I mean the interior casing, stool, apron , all the wood work inside the house). All windows are the same.

Do you think the pricing is fair and which Do you think is the better window. I will greatly appreciate your opinion. The one I didn't mention was from Polaris for 27000.00 for the same as the Simonton, which I thought was completely insane.

Larry - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Larry, thanks for the question. so let's take each of the bids separately. I will start out with the Polaris windows for $27,000. You are absolutely correct that this bid is insane, especially considering that the top of the line window from Polaris is equal in quality to the soft light imperial LS.

The quote you have for nine windows and one patio door for the soft light imperial LS $13,000 seems relatively fair to me. I can't say with total a surety because obviously I haven't seen the project personally but based on what the quote is for the Simonton I would say that the 13,000 seems quite fair.

The quote for the Simonton Vantage 66 window, which I'm assuming is the Simonton Vantage Point window, at approximately $2000 less than the soft light LS is about what I would expect in terms of the price difference between these two windows.

If it were my house, I would absolutely spend the additional $2000 for the Soft Light imperial LS. If you assume that we have 10 windows in total including the patio door. That's only $200 more per window which I think is worth it to get one of the best vinyl windows on the market.

Having said that, if this were my house I would try and negotiate that 13 $13,000 down to see where the soft light dealers actual floor is. Check out our article that discusses how to negotiate a window bid and I think that the techniques explored in it will help to save you some money. Good luck!

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton 6500 vs. Revere Berkshire Elite

Hi, I've been reading your reviews and was hoping you could recommend some companies that sell in Texas.

I've had HD talk about the Simonton 6500, and an online quote for Berkshire Elite. I have a guy coming to talk about Don Young.

It's really hot in Texas.... will vinyl windows hold up?

I've seen that you like Okna.... are they available in Texas? We're in the San Antonio area.

- Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Answer]

Rick, high quality vinyl windows should be able to handle the heat in Texas. Many consumers also opt for aluminum windows, which are very durable, but do lack much in terms of energy efficiency.

I'm inclined to say that the Simonton 6500 series and Berkshire Elite are pretty comparable in terms of quality, performance and features. They are both middle of the road at best windows.

If you are going to go with vinyl windows in Texas, I think you need to step up to something better than the two selections you have.

Don Young sells a very good aluminum window that I would recommend. Their vinyl windows are going to be better than the 6500 and Elite, but they aren't as good as their aluminum windows.

Zen Windows might be available in your area, as well as Milgard and Amerimax. I'd be interested to hear what the Don Young aluminum window comes in at, that might be my top pick for Texas if it were my home.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Vantage Pointe 6500E vs. Pella 250 Series

I need some advice with regard to replacing some wood windows. We have received pricing quotes from Lowes and Home Depot for various VINYL brands. Specifically, Vantage Pointe 6500E, Pella Thermastar and Pella 250 Series. We reside on the East Coast and have a limited budget because of having to replace approximately 18 WOOD windows. Since the estimates have been extremely high, we are looking to contract with a local company in the 22407 zip code area. I would appreciate your recommendation on a window brand.

- Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Bernice, none of the windows you mentioned are super high quality, but the Vantage Pointe 6500E option is probably your best bet. The Pella 250 would be next in line, not a bad vinyl window, but perhaps on the lower end of the mid range. The Pella Thermastar is one of my least favorite vinyl windows out there. Check out our replacement windows by Consumer Reports to verify (I actually don't think Consumer Reports gets much right besides their score on the Thermastar.)

I think you should at least get a couple of quotes from local dealers, not HD and Lowes, although with your tight budget it might be tough. The two brands I would recommend are Okna and Sunrise, both of which should be available in Virginia.

Since you are on a budget, I would say look up companies that offer these window brands and call them up and tell them you want a quote on their entry level window window, the Okna 400 series and the Sunrise Bainbridge option. These windows are going to be MUCH better than the windows you have selected. I'm not sure they will be in your budget, but I will say that long term they may be the cheaper alternative, especially if you are going to be staying in your home for a long time.

- Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton VantagePointe vs CWS

We got two quotes on 14 windows. I included the measurements and location of the windows on the yellow sheet attatched above. I have also attached the warrenty info on the Simonton Window from home depot which is a double hung and priced out at $8500 for 14 windows and the windows from FHA are single hung CWS windows and are priced out at just over $12,000. I am leaning towards the CWS windows but I wanted to find out if $12,000 is reasonable. Thanks for your help and I hope you have a great night!!!!

Jeromy - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Jeromy, that's a big price difference. I like the single hungs from CWS and they are going to be a much better window than the Home Depot Simonton (I'm assuming it's either the Daylight Max or the VantagePointe series). The Simonton is actually not a bad window, it's a decent middle of the road vinyl window, although I'm always very wary about the installation you might be getting from the subs through HD.

I would say this, either go with the Simonton and find an experienced installer yourself or see if you can get that CWS bid down to $10K. Use the HD bid as leverage, say something like, I have a bid on Simonton (leave out that it's from HD) that is $8500 and I know you can't match it, but I need you to work with me on the price because I really want to go with you. I feel like that would be worth the price difference. You may also want to get one more bid to see where it falls in that price spectrum (and you could use it as additional leverage with the CWS company.)

Tim - Site Editor - from 2016

Jeromy's Response

Hello Dane, thanks for the response. FHA actually reached out and they now have a doublevhung CWS and they are able to install them for $10,750. How does that sound? Have a great weekend!! Thanks, Jeromy.

[Site Editor's Response]

Jeromy, that price is much more in line with what I was thinking. I would go back and tell them if they can do it for $10,250, you will sign today and see what they say. If they refuse, I think you still have a fair price.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton Vantage Point 6500 vs Pella 250

My wife and I recently received quotes by a Pella representative and a Home Depot representative. How do the Pella 250 and 350 compare to the Simonton Vantage Point 6500?

Dave - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Dave, I would have to give the edge to the Pella 250/350, but not by much. Both of these vinyl windows are right in that mid range option (perhaps a bit on the low side of that mid range). The reason that most consumers like the HD Simonton Vantage Point 6500 is the price, while many consumers go with Pella for the name (usually mistakenly). Pella has definitely stepped up their game with the 250 and 350 series, but they are often going to run more than something like the VantagePointe.

The big issue I have with HD is the installation quality with the use of subcontractors who are paid a very low rate for their services. I don't find this to be a recipe for quality (certainly not always the case, but I've heard enough stories to know it can be true).

I would be curious to know how these compare to one another in terms of price? I would have to assume that the Pella option was quite a bit more. If it were me, I would get a couple more quotes to before I pulled the trigger. Where are you located, I could make a couple of suggestions if you'd like.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton 6500 VantagePoint vs Okna Windows

Question, comparison and your opinion on window options. We own a rental townhouse and need to replace the old aluminum windows. We have 16 windows and the HOA requires them to be installed flanged/new construction. We have received quotes on Okna 500 series for $8800 (I was happy to see how well you rate Okna in some of the responses I've found on this site), Great Lakes Bay Shore for $9700 and Simonton 6500 VantagePoint from HD for $13666.

We aren't looking to spend a ton since this is an investment property but we plan to hold it for income into our retirement years and we are in our young 40s now. My husband just asked for Lowes to come out and quote for us on Monday for a cheaper window they sell and will install, since we found out from Home Depot that they won't install the cheaper windows they sell online. What would you do?

Melissa - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Melissa, I'm surprised that the Okna 500 series is so much cheaper than the other options. The Okna 500 is better than the Great Lakes Bayshore window and the Simonton 6500 VantagePoint. Not to say that the Bayshore or VantagePoint windows are bad, they are solidly middle of the road.

The Okna is just a better window and the performance data backs this up. I'm VERY surprised by the price that HD quoted you out at, $850 per window for the 6500 series seems like way too much. The price you got on the Okna 500 at $550 installed for new construction is good. I'd schedule it if I were you.

The answer is clear in my opinon.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton 6200 vs Andersen 100 Series

I have a sunroom in my house with 5 old double hung wood windows that need replacement. We are considering Home Depot in Oakland, CA for the job and a small independent shop. Home Depot is proposing Simonton 6200 (vinyl) and Andersen 100 Series (fibrex). Due to apparent code requirements we have to use Casement to have an opening big enough in case of fire, for the fireman to be able to perform a rescue. Which brand do you think is best? Simonton carries a lifetime warranty and Andersen has 20 years warranty. Which is the better choice?

Vivek - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Vivek, between the Simonton 6200 and the Andersen 100 series, the Andersen is definitely the better option of the two. The VantagePointe is at the lower end of the typical mid range vinyl window (does this make sense?). Other options in your area that I think you may want to consider is Milgard, Anlin and Amerimax - these are my go to west coast options - look at their mid range offerings and compare these prices to the bids you currently have. However, the Andersen 100 series is a good window and certainly you will get a good price at HD.

I would however not use HD for the installation. I would instead suggest you find a local company or contractor to do the work on the sunroom. HD offers good product pricing, but they subcontract out the work and you may not get the quality of installation that you deserve.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton 6500 series

I wanted to ask you about the Simington window 6500 series. We purchase our home in 08' and the builder used cheap Jelwin windows all around. I am looking to replace them and keep the cost reasonable. My dilemma is our home runs 100 feet parallel near the Long Island R/R, so we are attempting to reduce the noise, as well as the street noise. I had Home depot come and the rep seem to think we would benefit from this series of window at a total cost of 14k, including installation. They would be replacing a total of 11 window, plus 2 moon windows and a patio door. Do you think this sounds reasonable, and do you think these window are good? Can you recommend a window that can offer decent quality and noise reduction?

I'm certainly not expecting that a window will block out all the noise, but the current window are god awful. Anderson comes to mind, but I know how expensive they can be? We had a contractor down our block come by and he gave a cost of 22k for Anderson….I appreciate your feedback and advice and hope to hear back from you soon.

- Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

The Simonton 6500 VantagePointe double hung is a decent vinyl window and I would recommend it for a lot of homes, given the right price point. In terms of the 11K, it sounds a bit high to me, but I don't know all of the specifics and features that the price includes so, it very well might be fair. I don't love the HD option though because they sub out their installation and I don't think this is a good recipe for quality installation.

I think there might be some better options out there in terms of a sound control window, although these are often not cheap. I would first start out and search for Okna and Soft-Lite reps who cover your area and get quotes from them on the project. I would assume they would be somewhere in between the Simonton and Andersen quotes. These aren't going to be sound control windows per se, but they are well made vinyl windows (better than the VantagePointe).

I would ask both people who come out if they think you need to go with a sound control window or whether they think their windows are going to be specific. This is where I would start.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2015

Tulsa Oklahoma Replacement Windows

Dane, we live in Oklahoma and need our windows replaced in our high end house. We are looking for vinyl window due to the weather here in Tulsa. We went to Home Depot and they have suggested the Simonton 6100 series. We find that there are not many options. What would you suggest? Thanks.

[Site Editor's Response]

Hi Lynn, the Simonton 6100 Series, also known as the Vantage Point is an alright vinyl window, not one I would recommend unless you are pretty budget minded. In fact, there isn't too much at the big box store that falls in the mid range categories (although I would say that Simonton and perhaps Reliabilt are the two brands that achieve this with a few nice upgrades).

If you have a high end home and want to put a high quality vinyl window in, I would suggest the top of the line Soft-Lite or Sunrise window. I believe that both of these companies have local distributors that service at least parts of the state (I can't say with any assurances that they service Tulsa). Do a search for "Soft-Lite windows Tulsa Oklahoma" and "Sunrise windows Tulsa Oklahoma" and see what comes up. If you don't come up with anything using these searches, I believe ProVia Windows and Doors are available in your area.

Let me know what you find!

Dane - Site Editor - from 2015

Simonton Vantage Pointe 6100 Series

Hi Tim, I live in South Jersey and I wanted to know about the Simonton replacement vinyl windows. I'm looking for a good mid level window that won't break the bank. I got a a estimate from Home Depot for the Simonton Vantage pointe 6100 series. But I'm just not sure about how good there installers are. So if you have any insight on Simonton vinyl Windows I would greatly appreciate it!

Chris - Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Chris, the Vantage Point is an okay window and is made exclusively for Home Depot. This means there won't be as many custom options, such as glass, exterior frame colors, etc but it will be affordable. In general, I would like to see you get something a bit higher in terms of quality, especially if your goal is to find a good mid level vinyl window.

The Simonton mid range and higher end Reflections, Impressions and StormBreaker Series are well built and often competitively priced. The Prism Gold and Prism Platinum are the east coast equivalents to the Reflections series and they are a decent vinyl window that should be a good investment.

Remember that the installation is very important so you are right to be wary of the installers from HD. I would find a local company who carries Simonton and offers their own installation. You will pay more, for both the window and the installation, but your long term cost savings will be higher.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2015

Simonton VantagePointe Window Review

I am looking at windows quoted by Home Depot in Calif. The propose Simonton Vantage Point, with a little research they seem to be 6000 series window. How do these compare to other Simonton windows and Anlin, Thanks in advance

Dan - Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Dan, The Simonton VantagePointe is a specialty window that is sold exclusively at Home Depot. You are correct that is is the 6000 Series, the 6100 is the entry level, 6300 the mid range and the 6500 the premium option. The window has some decent features, including a number of rather interesting interior frame color options. In general, it's a pretty standard vinyl window that is probably equivalent to the Anlin Monte Verde (one of their specialty windows that is more of a budget option). I would say Anlin is a level above Simonton when comparing apples to apples.

The Simonton VantagePointe window, with their Low-E 366 Cardinal Glass, Intercept spacer and krypton fills, you should be looking at around a 0.30 U-factor, 0.15 air infiltration, 0.32 visible transmittance, 3.33 R-value and 0.18 SHGC. While I don't like this AI .15 - the rest of the numbers are decent.

As to HD, they are so big that they get pretty amazing prices, local distributors can rarely come close. They can't compete though on service and I really don't like their installation, which they subcontract out. If you like the price point and options being offered on the VantagePointe in store, go for it. But I would suggest finding a window installer elsewhere - the last thing you want I shoddy installation - it will cost you more in the long run. Good luck!

Tim - Site Editor - from 2015

Simonton VantagePointe Home Depot

Hi Dane, we just had a representative from Home Depot discuss with us 3 replacement windows. (We live in Suffolk county, Long Island, N.Y. in a 40 unit Condo community - all windows must look the same!)

The windows we are considering for installation are the 6500E Vantage Pointe Windows - double hung. I would like to know how you regard the quality of these windows. We need windows that will reflect the high summer heat but retain the warmth of the house during the winter months. The windows face west - lots of high afternoon heat in summer. Would you recommend an alternative to these windows which would better fulfill our needs. (We have a deadline for savings and must decide by this coming Wednesday.) Thank you so much for your assistance.

Carol - Consumer - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Carol, sounds like your deadline is coming up very soon. So the VantagePointe is a specialty window from Simonton sold exclusively through Home Depot. The VantagePoint is okay - nothing particularly fancy or special about them - decent performance numbers, but nothing that is going to knock your socks off. The real issue I have with your situation is HD installation. They are a massive operation that typically subcontracts out their work to a variety of installers who may or may not provide adequate installation. They often pay them by the window, which means there is an incentive for the installer to get the job done as quickly as possible.

I certanly don't have an issue with you purchasing the VantagePointe from Home Depot, in fact you are going to get much better pricing here than elsewhere. However, I would suggest hiring your own installer that has solid references and reviews in your community to insure a proper install. Best of luck!

Dane - Site Editor - from 2015

Simonton VantagePointe Windows Reviews

I am looking at windows quoted by Home Depot in Calif. The propose Simonton Vantage Point, with a little research they seem to be 6000 series window. How do these compare to other Simonton windows and Anlin, Thanks in advance

Dan - Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Dan, The Simonton VantagePointe is a specialty window that is sold exclusively at Home Depot. You are correct that is is the 6000 Series, the 6100 is the entry level, 6300 the mid range and the 6500 the premium option. The window has some decent features, including a number of rather interesting interior frame color options. In general, it's a pretty standard vinyl window that is probably equivalent to the Anlin Monte Verde (one of their specialty windows that is more of a budget option). I would say Anlin is a level above Simonton when comparing apples to apples.

The Simonton VantagePointe window, with their Low-E 366 Cardinal Glass, Intercept spacer and krypton fills, you should be looking at around a 0.30 U-factor, 0.15 air infiltration, 0.32 visible transmittance, 3.33 R-value and 0.18 SHGC. While I don't like this AI .15 - the rest of the numbers are decent.

As for HD, they are so big that they get pretty amazing prices, local distributors can rarely come close. However, HP can't compete on customer service, variety of options, and I really don't like their installation, which they subcontract out. If you like the price point and options being offered on the VantagePointe in store, go for it. But I would suggest finding a window installer elsewhere - the last thing you want I shoddy installation - it will cost you more in the long run. Good luck!

Tim - Site Editor - from 2015

Simonton 6500 series

I wanted to ask you about the Simington window 6500 series. We purchase our home in 08' and the builder used cheap Jelwin windows all around. I am looking to replace them and keep the cost reasonable. My dilemma is our home runs 100 feet parallel near the Long Island R/R, so we are attempting to reduce the noise, as well as the street noise. I had Home depot come and the rep seem to think we would benefit from this series of window at a total cost of 14k, including installation. They would be replacing a total of 11 window, plus 2 moon windows and a patio door. Do you think this sounds reasonable, and do you think these window are good?

Can you recommend a window that can offer decent quality and noise reduction? I'm certainly not expecting that a window will block out all the noise, but the current window are god awful. Anderson comes to mind, but I know how expensive they can be? We had a contractor down our block come by and he gave a cost of 22k for Anderson….I appreciate your feedback and advice and hope to hear back from you soon.

- Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

The Simonton 6500 VantagePointe double hung is a decent vinyl window and I would recommend it for a lot of homes, given the right price point. In terms of the 11K, it sounds a bit high to me, but I don't know all of the specifics and features that the price includes so, it very well might be fair. I don't love the HD option though because they sub out their installation and I don't think this is a good recipe for quality installation.

I think there might be some better options out there in terms of a sound control window, although these are often not cheap. I would first start out and search for Okna and Soft-Lite reps who cover your area and get quotes from them on the project. I would assume they would be somewhere in between the Simonton and Andersen quotes. These aren't going to be sound control windows per se, but they are well made vinyl windows (better than the VantagePointe).

I would ask both people who come out if they think you need to go with a sound control window or whether they think their windows are going to be specific. This is where I would start.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2015

Simonton Vantage Pointe 6100 Series

Hi Tim, I live in South Jersey and I wanted to know about the Simonton replacement vinyl windows. I'm looking for a good mid level window that won't break the bank. I got a a estimate from Home Depot for the Simonton Vantage pointe 6100 series. But I'm just not sure about how good there installers are. So if you have any insight on Simonton vinyl Windows I would greatly appreciate it!

Chris - Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Chris, the Vantage Point is an okay window and is made exclusively for Home Depot. This means there won't be as many custom options, such as glass, exterior frame colors, etc but it will be affordable. In general, I would like to see you get something a bit higher in terms of quality, especially if your goal is to find a good mid level vinyl window.

The Simonton mid range and higher end Reflections, Impressions and StormBreaker Series are well built and often competitively priced. The Prism Gold and Prism Platinum are the east coast equivalents to the Reflections series and they are a decent vinyl window that should be a good investment.

Remember that the installation is very important so you are right to be wary of the installers from HD. I would find a local company who carries Simonton and offers their own installation. You will pay more, for both the window and the installation, but your long term cost savings will be higher.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2015

Simonton Vantage Pointe Windows

Hi Dane, we just had a representative from Home Depot discuss with us 3 replacement windows. (We live in Suffolk county, Long Island, N.Y. in a 40 unit Condo community - all windows must look the same!)

The windows we are considering for installation are the 6500E Vantage Pointe Windows - double hung. I would like to know how you regard the quality of these windows. We need windows that will reflect the high summer heat but retain the warmth of the house during the winter months. The windows face west - lots of high afternoon heat in summer. Would you recommend an alternative to these windows which would better fulfill our needs. (We have a deadline for savings and must decide by this coming Wednesday.) Thank you so much for your assistance.

Carol - Consumer - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Carol, sounds like your deadline is coming up very soon...I'm not sure I understand why you have to make a rushed decision on such a good sized purchase but here is my two cents --

VantagePointe is a specialty window from Simonton sold exclusively through Home Depot. The VantagePoint is okay - nothing particularly fancy or special about them - decent performance numbers, but nothing that is going to knock your socks off. The real issue I have with your situation is HD installation. They are a massive operation that typically subcontracts out their work to a variety of installers who may or may not provide adequate installation. They often pay them by the window, which means there is an incentive for the installer to get the job done as quickly as possible.

I certanly don't have an issue with you purchasing the VantagePointe from Home Depot, in fact you are going to get much better pricing here than elsewhere. However, I would suggest hiring your own installer that has solid references and reviews in your community to insure a proper install. Best of luck!

Dane - Site Editor - from 2015

[Consumer Response]

Thanks so much for your input, Dane. It was helpful and we did go ahead and purchase the 3 windows that we so badly needed. Although HD will be installing the windows, we were assured by the salesperson - who was very knowledgeable and spent 1 1/2 hours with us - that he knows the installers for many years and vouched for their expert work. I will get back to you in the coming weeks to let you know how things turned out!

Simonton Innovo Reviews

Simonton Innovo vs. Sunrise Sliding Doors

Tim, I am trying to decide between the Sunrise sliding door and the Simonton Inovo sliding door. Both seem to be well constructed and similar in features. Price wise the Simonton is coming in at a lower cost by about $1000.

Any opinion on which might be the better option to go with?

Greg - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Greg, Sunrise makes a very good sliding door and Simonton makes a good sliding door. Assuming you like the overall look of the Simonton series, I would save the $1000 and go with that one. The Sunrise is going to be a bit better, but honestly not $1K better.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton Innovo vs ProCraft

I've gotten two bids for my window replacement in the Seattle area (vinyl double pane replacing single-pane aluminum frame) and the numbers are very far apart. I'm getting funny feelings about the use of "house label" from both companies - I'm assuming they use private model numbers exactly to prevent comparisons. One company quoted their ProCraft Pro-8000 series ( http://www.procraftwindows.com/proseries-8000-vinyl-windows.cfm). They state that these are made by CDI in Tacoma (Comfort Design Windows?), but it isn't clear about which model. Have you heard of CDI?

They don't exist in the manufacturer list you have. And their model names don't translate directly. The other company did the same thing - They quoted their "Innova Pro Series" (http://clearnrg.com/products/) which are stated as made by Simonton with some upgrades and such, but aren't clear about which line's frame is used as the base. By reading your site, I know Simonton can be all over the map in terms of cost, quality and value. As an example of one window in the bid, a 72x42 slider from ProCraft (CDI) was quoted at 932 installed, while the Innovo (Simonton) was quoted at 1596 installed. Even with installation cost of 150 on the window, both seem a little high. And unless its apples and oranges in terms of quality, the latter seems REALLY high. Any thoughts? Definitely time for a third quote, methinks.

Chris - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Answer]

Chris, if the installation cost is $150, which seems perfectly reasonable to me, the window cost is REALLY high, especially for ProCraft (never heard of them) and Simonton. Think about it this way, you can go to Home Depot and order an Andersen 100 series (a composite frame that is certainly as good as most Simonton windows) and order that for somewhere in the neighborhood of $450 in that size…this is a guess of course (it might actually be worth your while just to see).

HD always offers really low cost on the windows, but their installation is very hit or miss. Assuming you were to hire someone off of yelp who gets excellent window installation reviews and they charge $150, you'd be looking at $600 fully installed. Now if you found another company who sold the product and did the installation, you might be in the $650 to $750 range, but unless there is something I'm missing, the product cost is high.

Try to find a Milgard dealer and get a bid on the Tuscany model, there must be a bunch up there. Amerimax might be available up there as well. Bottom line is I'd keep looking because that price seems high to me…if the other bids come in at that same range then at least you'll know that something is driving up that cost. Might be worth a call to the HD windows department and see if they can quote you a price on a window with those measurements.

Thanks a bunch for your insight. It confirms my feeling that these prices are either high for what we get or that they are positioning themselves at the high-end and feel that they can justify it with their customizations to these models. I'll keep looking and try to get another couple quotes from window places and home depot too. Love your site - most folks buy windows once or twice in their life, so everybody is a rookie and this sort of info is needed.

Simonton Generations Windows Reviews

The Simonton Generations window is a relabeled Reflections 5500 series that is sold under the name in certain regions. In general, the 5500 series gets quite good marks from contractors and industry experts.

Dane - Site Editor

Simonton Generations Window Review

We are researching replacement windows for our 15 yo house in Spring, TX (north of Houston). The two companies we have looked so far are: Simonton (Generations series) and AWS (American Window System). I was unable to find any reviews on AWS on your website. Do you know anything about them? We looked at them sample windows they look a little rough made, but $3k cheaper than what Simonton wants. Just wondering if you can provide any comments on AWS. Much appreciated!!

Anna - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Answer]

Anna, I have never heard of American Window Systems out of Texas. I took a look at their website, they have a lot of models so it was unclear which window you were talking about. In general, you get what you pay for in the window industry (but not always) and I have to imagine that true of this very regional vinyl window manufacturer (who I've never heard of and who isn't listed on the nrfc.org website as far as I can tell).

The Simonton Generations Windows are I believe the Reflections 5500 window (or very very close), which is one of their better models. I think the name is simply a marketing deal -- just to make it more confusing!

If it were me, I would forget the AWS and instead get a couple more bids from local companies who carry the Milgard Tuscany and the Don Young mid range vinyl window. This should be comparing apples-to-apples and will give you a better product sampling to compare.

Simonton Bay And Bow Window Reviews

Simonton makes good bay and bow windows. Like most manufacturers, they purchase the bay box from another company and then add their own windows into the premade bay or bow. This isn't always the case, especially with bow windows, which might be made on site of a project. Therefore, a "Simonton Bay Window" doesn't tell you what you need to know -- you want to know what series you are buying from Simonton.

Dane - Site Editor

Simonton Bow Window vs. United

Hi Tim, my contractor quoted 3 prices for replacing my bow window for United (2 options - $3,794 & $4,089) and Simonton ($4,658). Is Simonton a better window than United? If I want to price a higher quality window than Simonton, what manufacturers would you recommend?

My home is 60 yr old split level and my wife & I plan to stay in the house maybe 5-10 more years. What level of quality do you recommend that we invest in for this project?

Jim - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Jim, Simonton is absolutely the better window compared with United windows. I would definitely recommend going with the Simonton option, even if you aren't in your forever home. It's not like Simonton is the most expensive window out there, it's more in that mid range and is appropriate for your timeline. Both companies probably buy the actual bow/bay window box from the few companies that specialize in making them so there will be very little difference there.

I would still go back to the Simonton dealer and tell him you have another bid for $4,000 and say if he can get close to that price, you are ready and willing to sign right then...see what he says.

Simonton Evolution Windows Reviews

Simonton Evolution Window Information

Thanks for all of the great info you provide on your site! We are getting bids on various replacement window options, and one highly recommended company quoted us on the Simonton Evolution window. I cannot find any information on what that is comparable to (is it the same as the 5500? Is it something else entirely?). Do you have any idea what that model might actually refer to? Thanks again!

Kim - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Kim, model or serial numbers can be found on the frame or in the sash. You may want to take a picture of any label with your phone, drive down to Home Depot, and ask the guys to take a look at the pictures and tell you definitively for the model number. They carry Simonton and will know exactly what to look for.

Simonton 2300 Windows Reviews

Simonton Window Series 2300 Glider

I have a Simonton window series 2300 glider that has a crack on the inside pane and I’d like to replace the portion of the window that does not move. My HOA is hard to deal with and require all external portions of the condo to match. Can you give me any guidance?

Thanks.

Nancy - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Your best bet is probably to find a local window repair service using yelp or cragislist. they will usually provide you with an estimate over the phone and then they come out and repair the glass. simonton doesn't provide an accidental glass breakage policy in their warranty that i know of.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton Perfexion Windows Reviews

The Perfexion series was made by Norandex and Simonton purchased their Florida plant. The Perfexion window is now considered a Simonton product.

Simonton Perfexion Bid

I am replacing once set of sliders and 4 windows. Home is 32 years old. No plans to move. I had 3 different companies give me estimates. All are Simonton Windows and am told PGT slider or equivalent. Slider is a 4 pocket door and going to 3 pocket door. I am able to replace with double pain but am not required to use impact glass if I replace 25% or less of total windows. Due to cost difference, this will be a 4 year upgrade project. I have 21 windows and 3 pocket sliding doors.

Unfortunately, I did not find your website until late in this process. No vendor gave me specific line and series at the time of estimates so I can’t really know if they were equal comparisons of Simonton Windows. I went with Morgan exteriors because of personal friend reviews and I could select a specific install crew that came highly recommended.

I am sending you the info they just sent me that I need for HOA approval. Product has not been ordered yet but I have signed a contract. Total cost is $12,123. I believe I can make changes up until product is ordered. Do you have any recommendations or product changes that I should request?

Thank you so much.

Suzanne - Homeowner - from 2019

[Site Editor's Answer]

Suzanne, the Simonton perfexion is a pretty solid window. The price quote of $12.1K is a very fair price for the 21 windows and 3 pocket sliding doors. There are other windows out there to take a look at, but you would be hard pressed to get a better price than what was quoted.

You can certainly take a look at Sunrise windows, which may be available or a comparable PGT window. Besides that, I'd say you have a great bid to go with -- assuming you like the company that gave you the bid.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2019

[Suzanne's Reply]

Thanks for your reply. The quote is for one set of sliding glass doors (4 pocket doorJ and 4 windows for now. That fits in the 25% rule. Situation has changed. I’m told that Simonton doesn’t make bronze exterior and bronze interior, which is what I have now. PGT does. So now I am waiting for a new estimate on windows that are PGT Also was going with double hung but didn’t realize that comes with a full screen. I am not required to have hurricane impact windows if I go with 25% or less of total coverage.

Would you recommend double hung over a single hung? Do you have a specific model of PGT windows that you recommend that is a mid range vinyl window?

Thank you.

Suzanne - Homeowner - from 2019

[Site Editor's Answer]

Suzanne, that's too bad about the Simonton not working out. If you want to go with a non impact window, the PGT 5400 single hung is a good option. Normally single hung windows are made as a budget alternative to the double hung, that is changing in some quarters. The 5400 is a pretty good window. PGT WinGuard series is a good impact window option.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2019

Simonton Perfection Price Quote

I had Morgan exteriors do my windows. Actually they are in the process of replacing them right now. I ordered Simonton windows, and I see on the label it’s Norandex? And not rated for Duke energy rebate.

I feel I am being ripped off, since I’m replacing 9 windows for $9000...

Cary - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Cary, Norandex and Simonton have teamed up on one or two window lines so it's very possible that you ordered a Simonton but they ended up with a Nornadex label -- the eXtreme and Perfexion series are the two that come to mind.

9 windows for $9000 is quite a bit to pay. Now that doesn't mean it's not a fair bid, but without additional bids from competitive companies to compare it to, its impossible to say. I will say this; paying $1000 per window would almost certainly have to involve some frame or sill work. Typical installation costs are $100 to $150 per window. A nice Simonton window might cost $250 to $350 per window. So thats $500 as a "standard" price -- so the extra $500 per window has to be accounted for somewhere.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton Perfexion vs. Amcraft Windows

Hi Dane. We are negotiating a lania enclosure for our Florida home. Which window is better Simonton Perfexion Platinum Series and the other is Amcraft windows by Simonton. Which one is better?

Myrna - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Myrna, the Simonton Perfexion Platinum window would be the desired option over Amcraft Windows.

Simonton Coastal Windows Reviews

Simonton Hurricane Impact Windows

I ordered hurricane impact windows...I got many bids, window Depot was the company I first choose $8500, but when they didn’t return my call for a question, I decided to go with another company with lifetime warranty, free replacement etc. Morgan Exteriors. The other bids I got were for cws and pgt, they were very similar in price, but I didn’t like the windows as much.

I called morgan exteriors and they assured me that three are simonton hurricane impact windows, in small print on label it says simonton. The windows are amazing, installation went smoothly. I’m just waiting for final inspection from county, final service from Morgan exteriors, and an inspection from Duke energy for window rebate.

Thanks for your help.

Cary - Homeowner - from 2018

Simonton Coastal vs. CWS 8700

Hi Dane, I'm looking for Impact French doors and am considering the CWS 8700 series for the work. Should I be looking at other brands besides the CWS for the project.

Thanks in advance for all of your assistance

Glenda - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Glenda, in addition to CWS, I would put PGT on that list. Those two companies are right on par with one another in terms of windows and doors. As well, I would include the Simonton Coastal and Stormbreaker Plus windows. I think all of these are good companies and they are all relatively fairly priced manufacturers.

Simonton Verona Windows Reviews

Simonton Verona Series vs. AMI Preservation

We are looking to replace our mobile home windows to save energy & provide a more even heat / cool balance between the North & South ends. My question is between AMI Preservation replacement windows for a 56 year old mobile home versus Simonton Verona Series for same 56 year old mobile home.

I have been told that Simonton Windows ( 6200 or Verona? ) are good vinyl windows for our project by a couple of bidders.
Another bidder proposes the AMI Preservation windows.

In listening to the presentations I am leaning more toward the AMI windows based on the design & construction, but am struggling with the added cost.

AMI ~$18K, Simonton 6200's $13K.

What I am hoping you might be able to help me with is: your opinion(s) of which option is better for my situation, or if there is a better solution. Thank you for your help.

14 windows total. I also need to correct age of MobileHome. 46 years old (1972 vintage ).

[Site Editor's Answer]

Loren, my own take on the AMI Preservation window is that its overpriced for the overall quality of the window. I would say its a better window than the Simonton 6000 series, but not by a lot. Right now though, I'm leaning towards the Simonton quote from a quality installation company. If, however, the AMI installer seems like a better outfit over the Simonton, that would be enough to switch my vote to the Preservation.

I have to say that your two bids seem very expensive. Windows for a mobile home are typically cheaper than for a home. The average cost to buy and install a Milgard Tuscany window is $450 to $500. So why are you looking at such a high cost? Perhaps the windows are big or the installation is complicated...

I think you should look up home window installation on yelp and call up a few of the top companies and get bids from them.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

[Loren's Reply]

Thank you Dane, you have confirmed this nagging thought that the AMI & Simonton America’s Dream are not really the best choice. I do have a Milgard quote that is presented more clearly & is considerably less cost.

General Simonton Windows Reviews

Simonton Casement Windows

I am a very confused buyer of replacement windows. I have 10 Casement Windows made by a now closed company called BuiltRite. They are original 41 years old.

I read your info on the web. A recent salesman from a lumber company selling Simonton. He pointed out I should not consider what he referred to as Inserts.

What are the differences in replacement windows? In their case they would remove the inside trim to install.

Tony - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Hi Tony. Yes, it can get fairly complicated based on the type of home, condition of the frames, etc.

Here is an article that gives a basic breakdown of what goes into each installation method.
http://www.replacementwindowsreviews.co/review-topics/window-installation-prices.html

Get a couple more opinions on the best approach for your project just to be safe. Different installers have different opinions or approaches, but if the windows are 41 years old you will probably want to do a full replacement to insure that no water or moisture is getting in.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonington Windows

Hi Tim, we have a 1960’s cape cod house in upstate New York, the windows all work but have external storms and screens and we’re thinking of replacement vinyl windows.

We had quotes from Home Depot for Simonington Windows at $18,000 something for 14 windows, it seemed way high to me.
Another quote for this job for top of the line Joyce Windows was $9000, this seemed much more in line with what I would expect.
Any thoughts, suggestions? Are Joyce a good choice in this price range?

Any idea if the Okna or Softlites would be far better windows? (very few installers nearby sell these brands).
Any idea if either of these would be in the $9000 or so price range?

Tim - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Hi Tim, Home Depot can be all over the board in terms of quotes so it's tough for me to use this as a benchmark. I think you need a few more bids to get to the market price (or the best price). The size of your windows and the work required in the install can really push these prices up so I'm not sure where you fall in this regard.

I would definitely google "okna windows in (your town), new york" to see if any local companies carry the brand. I'd do the same for Sunrise, Soft-Lite, Okna, and Polaris. Get a bid from these local companies on their mid range windows (i'd avoid the entry level models) and see what you get. You'd be surprised how varied bids can be. I just emailed back and forth with someone yesterday who had 40 windows and one company bid out the project $18K more for basically the exact same window and work.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton vs. PGT

What is the difference between Simonton and PGT? Is one a better window than the other?

Best, Wally.

Wally - Homeowner - from 2018

[Site Editor's Answer]

Hi Wally, there are plenty of differences between Simonton and PGT as companies. Simonton is certainly the bigger of the two and they make lots of middle of the road vinyl windows. Their Prism Platinum (sometimes known as Reflections 5500 series) is a good vinyl window, along with the Impressions 9800 series. I would stick with those in terms of Simonton.

PGT makes better windows overall, but each company sells a number of different series: an entry level, mid range and premium. PGT's mid range and premium vinyl windows are considered quite good and I would certainly have any of these windows in my home.

I would get bids from both companies (also try Custom Window Systems if they have a dealer in your area). Feel free to send the bids my way when you collect them and I'm happy to give you my two cents on pricing, quality, etc.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2018

Simonton Windows And Consumer Reports

Thank you for getting back to me Dane. I think Nate is trying to use your PDF file as more like a consumer reports evaluation. I know Consumer Reports ranked Simonton very high as well as Andersen, both of which are available to Nate locally. In fact there's a Simonton distributor in his town it's Ryan Building Supply. They only sell to contractors however.

I'm surprised paradigm windows are listed in your document should I look them up on your website?

Roy - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Roy, Consumer Reports does rank Simonton and Andersen quite well. You have to understand though that CR can only rank windows that are available to consumers, which is not a lot. The majority of good vinyl windows are not even ranked on their survey. I think CR does a good job with a lot of consumer products, but I wouldn't put much stock in their replacement windows rankings. Just my opinion.

There are a number of window manufacturers that aren't included on the pdf. Paradigm makes a decent vinyl window, on par with some of the better Simonton windows. Definitely take a look at the reviews on the page to see what consumers and others think of their windows.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton and Anlin Del Mar Series

Hi Dane, I had a company that carries Anlin windows come out to give me a quote for 9 windows and 1 sliding door... I believe it's the Del Mar series that is soundproof for $9800.

I also had a another company that carries Simonton windows come to quote me for the same exact windows for $8770 and if it's a check they will even take $500 off.

I am having a hard time to find most current reviews of these 2 products comparison. Each company is saying there product is better than the other

Sue - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Sue, the Anlin Del Mar series is good. The quote sounds high to me. Assuming that the sliding door is $2,000, that's quite a bit for the 9 windows.

The $8270 for the exact same windows sounds much more in line with what I would expect (not knowing the size of windows, upgrades, etc.). I'm a little confused if this is for Simonton windows or Anlin with this second company. Simonton makes some pretty mediocre window series, as well as some very good windows, so if we are comparing Anlin and Simonton, I'd need to know what Simonton series we are talking about.

In general, Anlin is the better window by a bit, but again it depends on which series you are comparing.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton vs. Harvey

I'm near Boston so I will read up on the windows you mentioned in the northeast. I hear people talk about Simonton and Harvey windows. One of the suppliers I like offers Simonton. The other offers Stergis which I think are a local company. Have you ever heard of them? I've got some reading to do! The guide you sent me is absolutely awesome. I'll probably make a spreadsheet comparison using that info and warranty and NFRC ratings.

Thanks again!

Nathan - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Nathan, I have never heard of Stergis windows. Simonton and Harvey both offer some very solid vinyl window options. I would stick with Harvey Classic or better and the top vinyl windows from Simonton.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2017

Estimate Simington Windows

I have 2 Windows one is 100 x 40 and one 40x60. Estimate was Simington low e3 <0.25 (not sure which style) with vinyl. Custom sized to current frame. One will be XOX. They quoted $6600 which seems incredibly high. The also quoted for a 42' Provia fiberglass door with oval glass insert and glass side panel (both tempered). Should I run away?

Jeffrey - Homeowner - from 2017

[Site Editor's Answer]

Jeffrey, at first glance the 6600 for two windows and a fiberglass door does seem very high. However, you have to consider that the one window the hundred by 40 I would be shocked if that was a single window. I would imagine that they would have to do some sort of XO configuration to adequately span the gap. Fiber glass patio doors can be very expensive, depending on the size, especially if it has to be a custom size door.

This is one place where getting a few bids can really help because the custom sizes the different door companies offer can vary so one company might have a standard size that would drastically reduce the price while is another it would indeed have to be a custom sized in May door, which can really add to be overall price tag.

I think in general you need to get a couple more bids to find out whether the bed is too high or whether it makes sense for your project, especially considering the door and the one window that's 100" x 40".

Tim - Site Editor - from 2017

Simonton vs Okna Windows

I have gotten quotes from both OKNA and Simonton installers. My real concern is that the Okna guy is simply going to replace the glass part, not the frame or take the window back to the brick. The Simonton one is going to take out the old frame back to the brick. It seems to me that that is the right way to do it. What do you think?

Eleanor - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Eleanor, without actually seeing the project, I couldn't tell you whether you need replacement windows or whether you can simply replace the glass. I would suggest getting two more bids to see if you can get a better consensus on how best to proceed. A big part of that equation is going to depend on the condition of your current window frames and the overall cost difference between these two approaches. Get a couple more bids and see if this brings some clarity on how best to proceed with your project.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton vs Marvin Integrity Windows

I want to use Integrity replacement windows and my husband wants Simonton (high end). I know one is fiberglass and one is vinyl. Will the fiberglass last longer and be better quality than high end vinyl? Thank you.

Cheryl - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Cheryl, the Marvin Integrity is the better window in my opinion than anything that Simonton makes, with the possible exception of the Stormbreaker Plus, which is their impact window and not a fair comparison. The fiberglass will hold up as well or better than the vinyl over time. There is debate in the industry over which material is more durable, I tend to give a slight edge to fiberglass.

If you can afford the Integrity, like the look of it, and feel good about the installation, this is the choice I would make. Simonton's best windows however are not far behind the Integrity so I would also advise to go with the company and installation team that you feel most confident as to the quality of their work. The installation is quite an important piece of the project.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton And Reliabilt At Home Depot

Hi Dane, My wife and I own a small brick house in Plano, TX that we had been renting out. As divorce is pending, we plan to sell it. It would be preferable to replace all 10 original (1967) windows, and a couple are even broken.

We don't live in the area and I don't feel comfortable giving out the address to potential contractors. Can you give me any guidance on affordable, good brands of windows, potential contractors you trust in the Plano, TX/ north Dallas area? Does it make sense to use Home Depot?

Drew - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Drew, normally I would say not to use HD, but you are getting rid of the house and the windows need to be fine, not great. HD sells Simonton and Reliabilt windows that are good. Ask to get their best installer for the job and ask whether it comes with any sort of labor warranty on the work. Subcontractors from HD aren't the most reliable, but there are some good ones. Just make sure you get someone who doesn't cut corners.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Houston Texas Replacement Windows

We are looking to replace aluminum windows in a 34 year old home. We live east of Houston Tx. Do you recommend aluminum or vinyl? We found a vinyl window by MI. Based on your website, it seems evident that you do not like MI windows. What is your recommendation?

David - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

David, MI is indeed a lower end vinyl window manufacturer that sells cheap windows primarily to contractors and builders. I would definitely stay away from these if you want to maximixe the chances of getting the best long term value for your home.

Since you live in an incredibly hot climate down in Texas, I can go with either aluminum or a good vinyl. Don Young out of Houston sells an excellent aluminum window that you certainly should get a quote on from their local dealer - give them a call and they will refer you to the company or companies that service your town.

In terms of vinyl, you may want to look at Milgard, Sunrise, Zen (a franchise of Soft-Lite) and even Simonton. I would suggest staying away from the entry level option from each of these companies and instead stretch into their mid range (or high end) vinyl window model. With good competent installation, you should be well served with any of these brands. One note - in terms of the Simonton, I would recommend sticking to their 5500 Reflections or their 9800 Impressions series, these are the two models I feel comfortable recommending for such a hot climate as yours.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton Replacement Window Parts

I had several replacement Simonton windows put in a house we are restoring, at the bottom side of the windows there's about a 1" gap opening in the sash. I found some pieces left from the installer that will snap into the bottom edge of the new window which gives a much better appearance. I need some more of that vinyl extension material. I found an old sticker with numbers like 50DHWIWH, and 110607 1100, are these good numbers so I could buy more of these extensions in 4 to 5' lengths, looks to be around 1-1/4" wide

Michael - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Michael, typically windows production and model information is found in the corner of the glass, although this isn't always the case. My advise would be to take pictures of the sticker and the glass and take it down to Home Depot and speak with one of the window guys down there. Also measure the width and height of the window and the length of whatever part you are interested in.

The HD guys can probably take a look and call their Simonton rep and order replacement parts through their web portal. I'm not saying this will work for sure, but the HD guy's Simonton rep should be able to tell you whether or they have the part you are looking for.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton Double Strength Glass

Hi Dane and Tim, I live in Northern Virginia. After several high pressure, gimmicky sales pitches on replacement windows, it was the last one that has me more confused. The salesman didn't give me a clear answer - maybe you can. The literature states: "dual panes of single strength glass." This is the Simonton 6100 series. Other manufactures' brochures and internet sources I've looked either says double pane or single pane glass, no mention of strength. I know double pane replacement is probably the better choice, but what about strength?

Dee - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Aunt Dee, nearly all vinyl replacement windows sold today are dual pane windows, these use two panes of glass in the insulated glass unit.

Some manufacturers use single strength glass 1/16" thick and others use double strength glass 1/8" thick (this is approximate)…

Thinner glass is lighter, but it lacks the durability that you should be looking for. You will lose some energy performance and a bit of sound efficiency.

While it isn't a big deal (visually it's nearly impossible to tell), over time it makes more sense to get a window with double strength glass, even if you have to pay the $50 per window more to get it. In all likelihood, you will make it up over time and you won't have as many broken windows (not necessarily true, but life is all about playing the odds...)

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Gulf Texas Replacement Windows

Good morning, my name is Jeff and I live in Houston, TX. I need to replace three 84x58 picture windows in my living room. The window is faced to gulf court, so privacy and strength is a concern. Could you please recommend a window type to me? I am seeking for mid range windows. If you could, please give me price information also. Thank you so much.

Jeff - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Hi Jeff, it sounds like you are looking for a vinyl impact window, although an aluminum clad window might be an option as well in the hot Houston heat (aluminum is very strong, but is poor in terms of energy efficiency). I would get a bid from Don Young in Houston (they make excellent aluminum window and mid range vinyl windows) and ask them if they feel that a laminated or tempered glass is sufficient in terms in being able to withstand a golf ball. I know Simonton is in Texas and they make a decent vinyl window, their 9800 Impressions window or their 5500 Reflections series with an upgrade to the laminated glass and perhaps a meeting rail reinforcement would go a long way to really creating a strong and durable window, without breaking the bank.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton vs Cascade Windows

We live in AZ.We are looking to replace 2 double wide windows on our west side to cut down on the heat from the sun & save on air-conditioning, We have an offer from Home Depot for $2000 & one from Lowes at $1,157. That is a big difference. We don't want to put in something cheap that does not work well. We have 2 friends recommending Home Depot & claim they do work well. Home Depot puts in Simonton & Lowes puts in Cascade windows. Both promise lifetime guarantee. What is your recommendation?

Eileen - Homeowner - from 2016

[Site Editor's Response]

Eileen, I have to tell you that I'm not the biggest proponent of Home Depot or Lowes installation. These two superstores sell some okay windows, the Simonton brand being one of them. Cascade's reputation is not as strong as Simonton. In general, these two companies manufacture mid range vinyl windows, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. It is in the installation portion that gives me pause. Both of these stores typical use subcontractors that are paid by the window, meaning that the subcontractor is incentivized to go as quickly as they can, which can lead to less than ideal results.

I would get a few more bids if I were you to see what local companies in your area charge. Based on your mention of Cascade, I'm assuming you are in the western side of the U.S. I would do a search for local companies that use Milgard (Tuscany), Amerimax (Craftsman Portrait), and Anlin (Del Mar) windows. See how their mid range vinyl window price quotes compare to the HD and Lowes - the parentheses are all of these company's mid range vinyl window models.

I think you would be much better served in the long run to go with a local company with a good reputation that sells a better quality vinyl window such as the ones I listed.

I know I didn't answer your question, which I hate to do, but I'm just not sure how to answer it. That is a huge price difference. Simonton and Cascade each manufacture a number of difference vinyl window series, so that is going to play a big part in the price quote.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2016

Simonton vs Andersen Bay Window

We are considering replacing our old picture window with a bay window in our living room. Our contractor suggested Simonton because you can buy it with a finished vinyl inside {wood look} and then you have to stain the upper and lower yourself. That doesn't seem like a bad option. However as I was looking at them on the computer, it appears that the framing is a bit "bulky" looking as compared to say the Anderson {which doesn't have the inside color options} I also know that the Anderson is not entirely vinyl, and I read that vinly in general will be a little bulky. My question is how much more "bulky" looking is it. I cannot find a showroom in my area to view the Simonton, I can only view the Anderson.

Rosemary - Consumer - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Rosemary, it's tough to judge Simonton vs. Andersen because an Andersen bay window will typically be at the upper edge of the cost spectrum, while Simonton bay windows will be towards the bottom. Most local Simonton companies and dealers should have samples of the actual windows (obviously not a bay, but the frame should be similar.) Before they come out, make sure they are bringing an actual window for you to see and touch.

You may want to take a look at the Marvin Infinity window, which comes with a nice looking interior laminate grain that looks like wood but doesn't have the same issues associated with it. Sunrise windows makes a nice bay window that will be more narrow than the Simonton. Most companies make a bay window - typically the bay will resemble the width and overall look of their other windows so find quality companies in your area, call them up, make sure they sell a bay window and they should have images and photos for you to see.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2015

Simonton vs Harvey Windows

We are looking to replace 15 windows with white vinyl. So far we have had 3 different contractors/window companies over for estimates. Each guy has strongly pushed a different manufacturers window. Harvey, Simonton and Ideal. Specifically the Ideal Majestic. Each guy had good arguments as to why they recommend their fave - how do I know which is the best for our money? We are hoping for this to be our forever home. Thank you!

Kathy - Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Hi Kathy, well Harvey vinyl windows are good, although the common comment is that they charge a bit more for a pretty midrange vinyl window.

Simonton is certainly a well-known manufacturer and their mid range to premium products are very solid. So in regards to them, I would make sure that you know what window series you are purchasing.

Ideal is a smaller manufacturer, which is always a bit more of a gamble since there's a better chance that they're out of business in 20 years as opposed to a big company like Simonton.

One way to really compare the actual windows is to look at the performance numbers of each one and see how they compare there. In particular, ask for U-factor, SHGC, air infiltration and the visible transmittance or VT. The contractors should have these numbers, although you can also check nfrc.com - the site can be a bit cumbersome to navigate though.

The other issue, of course, is the installation portion of the project. The installation of the window is just as important as the window itself. So make sure that you feel comfortable with whoever is installing the windows. I like the installers who seen real picky about their work, who seem like they fret over every tiny detail. These are the guys you know are going to do the job completely and thoroughly and not cut any corners.

If it were me, I would say Simonton then Harvey than Ideal.

Dane - Site Editor - from 2015

Best Simonton Windows

Dear Dane, we are in the process of replacing windows and have gotten a quote from an installer for MI Energy Core windows. However, after doing some research online, it appears that MI windows are a lower quality window and have gotten some bad reviews (as well as a class action lawsuit).

We are looking for a good quality mid-range window. We basically need 8 23"W x 59"H double-hung windows and 10 23"W x 59"H single hung windows. Looking at your website, Simonton appears to be a good brand. However the series names that are listed on the website do not match up with the collection names on the Simonton website. I'm assuming they just came out with new names? Can you recommend which Simonton collections are the better quality ones and which to stay away from? Is there another brand that you recommend over Simonton?

We live in the mountains outside of Albuquerque, NM. Our house is pretty shaded, but we do get quite a bit of sun, as well as 19" on average of rain and 59" of snow (not sure if any of this matters). Also, do you recommend vinyl over aluminum (or fiberglass)? Thank you very much for your time,

Melissa - Homeowner - from 2015

[Site Editor's Response]

Melissa, I would have to agree to the MI is not typically on many contractors top 10 list. The Energy Core is not bad though, although I haven't seen numbers on it. In terms of good mid range vinyl windows on the west, I would say look at Milgard, Amerimax and Anlin. Milgard will be available for sure, Amerimax possibly and I don't know whether Anlin has reps in your area.

I would say stick with vinyl, although fiberglass is certainly an option. Aluminum is really only something you should consider if you are in very hot climates, which Albuqueque is not based on the fact that you get that much snow. Fiberglass options should include Marvin Infinity, Inline, and Milgard Ultra.

Simonton is a good brand, probably not as good as the ones I mentioned, although it all depends on which model you select. I like their 9800 Impressions, and their Reflections 5300 and 5500 series.

Tim - Site Editor - from 2015

Simonton vs Okna

I don't think there's much question that the Okna 800 is one of the best windows on the market. I'd certainly consider it among the top 4 or 5 out there. The double pane has a U-value of .25, air infiltration .01, and DP of 60. That beats pretty much any of their competitors. They definitely beat Simonton, although Simonton has really good customer service. The Simonton is a solid window that won't give you any trouble, but they aren't exciting. Oknas have the features and options to push it up to a higher class. They are more like the Sunrise, Gorell, and SoftLite.

Wayne - Industry Expert - from 2009

Simonton vs Ply Gems

I live in Oklahoma, and we can get some pretty crazy weather. I'm looking at Simonton, Plygem Premium Series, and Reliabilt. I need something that will hold up under winds and driving rain, but not be too hard on the wallet. Any suggestions?

CC - Homeowner - from 2010

[Contractor Response]

PlyGem and Simonton are both solid choices. I have more experience using PlyGems, so I'm a little biased, but I think you'd be happy either way. The prices should be close, so as long as you get a good install it shouldn't matter which you pick.

Harry - Contractor - 2010

Simonton Reflections Series Explained

Simonton seems like it makes a lot of different windows, but it's actually quite simple. They make three different windows, and three levels in each one. The Reflections comes in either a 5050, 5300, or 5500. Prism is either Bronze, Ultra Gold, or Platinum, and then they have the Generations line which is a private label. The 5050/Bronze level is less expensive, thinner frame, and just a more basic window. They are all good, but the better lines will generally last a little longer and have some extra features.

Peter - Contractor - from 2009

Simonton vs American Jewel

I'm a Simonton dealer, but I used to work with American Jewel windows. In the 1980s they had a heavy frame and were a decent window, but now they use designs with weaker frames and they are flimsy and fall apart. BF Rich is better than them and about the same price. Personally, I like Simontons, that's why I sell almost nothing else. Their best lines, the 5500, 6500, 9800, and Prism Platinum. These are much better as far as window quality, company reliability, and customer service. I can sell any window I want, I'm an independent dealer, but I can't be successful if my customers aren't happy so I try and steer them towards Simonton. I would avoid American Jewel.